Executive brief
macOS is the operating system that runs Apple computers. A flaw in how the system validates application permissions could allow a malicious app to gain root-level access, giving the attacker complete control over the computer and all user data on it.
Technical details
An entitlement validation vulnerability in macOS allows a local application to bypass security checks and escalate privileges to root level. The vulnerability is in the privilege escalation mechanism where improper entitlement checks fail to restrict unauthorized access. An attacker must craft and execute a malicious local application on the target system; no network access or user interaction is required beyond running the app. Successful exploitation grants root-level privileges, enabling complete system compromise. The issue is addressed in macOS Golden Gate 27, released September 14, 2026.
Affected products
- Apple macOS Golden Gate before 27
Timeline
- 2026-09-14: patched: Fixed in macOS Golden Gate 27
- 2026-09-14: disclosed