CVE-2019-8526
Published: April 17, 2023
Official Description
Apple macOS contains a use-after-free vulnerability that could allow for privilege escalation.
CISA KEV Advisory
Apple macOS Use-After-Free Vulnerability
Apple macOS contains a use-after-free vulnerability that could allow for privilege escalation.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
Apple macOS contains a use-after-free vulnerability that could allow an attacker to escalate privileges. This high-severity flaw is confirmed to be exploited in the wild (KEV), indicating an urgent need for remediation despite a low EPSS score.
This vulnerability is actively being exploited in the wild, as confirmed by its presence in CISA's KEV catalog.
Apple macOS users should update their systems to the latest available versions to address this privilege escalation vulnerability. Regular system updates are essential for maintaining security.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2019-8526 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2019-8526 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (2)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2019-8526 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1