CVE-2021-30938 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2021-30938 article provides details about a security issue in macOS that could allow a local user to cause unexpected system termination or read kernel memory. Learn about the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2021-30938

CVE-2021-30938 is a vulnerability in macOS that has been addressed by Apple with improved checks. The issue could potentially be exploited by a local user to disrupt system operations or access sensitive kernel memory.

What is CVE-2021-30938?

CVE-2021-30938 is a security flaw in macOS that allows a local user to trigger unexpected system termination or read kernel memory. Apple has released patches to fix this vulnerability in macOS Monterey 12.1, Security Update 2021-008 Catalina, and macOS Big Sur 11.6.2.

The Impact of CVE-2021-30938

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it can be exploited by a local user to disrupt system operation, leading to unexpected system termination or unauthorized access to kernel memory. This could potentially result in system instability and unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-30938

This section provides detailed technical information about CVE-2021-30938, including vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in macOS allows a local user to manipulate system behavior to cause unexpected termination or gain unauthorized access to kernel memory. This could be exploited for malicious purposes to disrupt system operations or steal sensitive information.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects macOS systems running versions less than macOS Monterey 12.1, Security Update 2021-008 Catalina, and macOS Big Sur 11.6.2. Users of these versions are at risk of exploitation by a local user to trigger system termination or access kernel memory.

Exploitation Mechanism

A local user can exploit this vulnerability by executing specific actions or code on the affected macOS systems, allowing them to cause system termination or read sensitive kernel memory. This could lead to system instability and unauthorized data access.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect systems from CVE-2021-30938 and similar vulnerabilities, it is essential to take immediate steps, implement long-term security practices, and apply necessary patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update their macOS systems to the latest versions, such as macOS Monterey 12.1, Security Update 2021-008 Catalina, and macOS Big Sur 11.6.2, which contain fixes for CVE-2021-30938.

Long-Term Security Practices

In addition to patching systems, users should follow security best practices such as avoiding suspicious links, practicing least privilege access, and regularly monitoring system activity to detect any unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Apple has released patches to address CVE-2021-30938 in macOS Monterey 12.1, Security Update 2021-008 Catalina, and macOS Big Sur 11.6.2. Users should regularly update their systems to apply the latest security fixes and protect against known vulnerabilities.