Executive brief
macOS is the operating system that runs Apple computers and handles core system functions including file system access controls. This vulnerability allows malicious applications to modify protected parts of the file system by bypassing the security entitlement checks that should prevent such access. An attacker could exploit this to alter system files, compromise system integrity, or modify other applications.
Technical details
This vulnerability is an entitlement validation bypass in macOS file system protections. The root cause is insufficient entitlement checks that allow applications to modify protected file system regions that should be restricted. The attack vector is local—a malicious app already running on the system can exploit this without requiring network access or elevated privileges initially. The fix addresses this with additional entitlement checks to enforce proper access controls. Patches are available in macOS Golden Gate 27, macOS Sequoia 15.8, and macOS Tahoe 26.7.
Affected products
- Apple macOS Golden Gate before 27
- Apple macOS Sequoia before 15.8
- Apple macOS Tahoe before 26.7
Timeline
- 2026-09-14: disclosed
- 2026-09-14: patched