CVE-2024-23296: Apple OS Kernel Memory Corruption Bypasses Memory Protections

Automated analysis

Generated by VULONE's analysis model from the NVD record, CISA KEV and EPSS data on 17 September 2026. Confidence: high.

high priorityCVSS 7.8 with confirmed in-the-wild exploitation and KEV listing, but the local attack vector and low EPSS keep it below critical.

What it is

A memory corruption flaw (out-of-bounds write, CWE-787) in Apple's kernel was fixed by improved validation across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, visionOS and watchOS. Apple states it is aware of a report that this issue may have been exploited, so it is a real-world targeted threat rather than a theoretical bug.

Impact

An attacker who already holds arbitrary kernel read and write capability can bypass kernel memory protections, escalating to full kernel-level control. That breaks the core security boundary of the device, enabling persistent compromise and defeat of mitigations.

Attack surface

The CVSS vector is local (AV:L) with low privileges (PR:L) and no user interaction (UI:N), so it is reached by code already running on the device rather than remotely. No network vector or authentication bypass is described in the record.

Exploitation

Apple states the issue may have been exploited, and CISA added it to KEV on 2024-03-06 with a 2024-03-27 remediation due date. EPSS is low (0.01411, 71st percentile) and no ransomware use is documented.

What to do

• Update to the fixed versions: iOS/iPadOS 16.7.8 or 17.4, macOS Monterey 12.7.6, Ventura 13.6.7, Sonoma 14.4, tvOS 17.4, visionOS 1.1, watchOS 10.4.
• Treat unpatched Apple devices as high risk and prioritize them for immediate update given KEV listing and known exploitation.
• Restrict installation of untrusted apps and profiles that could deliver local exploit code.
• Monitor Apple advisories for any further updates if a device cannot reach the fixed versions.
• For devices that cannot be patched, apply compensating controls or discontinue use per CISA guidance.

Detection

• Hunt for unexpected kernel panics or crashes on Apple endpoints that may indicate memory corruption attempts.
• Monitor for anomalous local processes attempting kernel memory operations or privilege escalation.
• Track patch/version compliance across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, visionOS and watchOS fleets against the fixed builds.
• Review endpoint telemetry for exploitation indicators around the KEV due date window.

This assessment is produced automatically and is not human-reviewed. Verify against the vendor advisory before acting on it.