Out-of-Bounds Write in macOS Monterey (CVE‑2022‑22675) Enables Kernel Code Execution
What It Is — macOS Monterey contains an out‑of‑bounds write flaw in the kernel that can be triggered by a crafted application. Successful exploitation grants the attacker arbitrary code execution with full kernel privileges.
Exploitability — The vulnerability is publicly disclosed, has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.8 (High), and proof‑of‑concept code is available. No known active exploit campaigns have been reported, but the attack surface is broad because any user‑installed app could be leveraged.
Affected Products — Apple macOS Monterey (all builds prior to the security update released March 2023).
Why It Matters for Trust & Control Assurance
- Vulnerability Management – Demonstrating a timely patch‑deployment process is a core control that maps to dozens of frameworks (e.g., NIST CSF Identify > Asset Management).
- Privileged Access Controls – Kernel‑level code execution bypasses normal user‑level protections; evidence of hardened execution policies (Gatekeeper, notarization) shows due diligence.
- Continuous Monitoring – Automated inventory of OS versions and patch status provides defensible audit evidence that your environment is not exposed to known critical flaws.
Recommended Actions
- Deploy Apple’s security update for CVE‑2022‑22675 across all macOS Monterey endpoints immediately.
- Verify patch compliance with an endpoint‑inventory tool; capture screenshots or logs as remediation evidence.
- Enforce Gatekeeper, notarization, and code‑signing policies to limit execution of unsigned binaries.
- Record the remediation in your vulnerability‑management system and map the activity to the “patch management” control objective.
- Review and update your incident‑response playbook to include kernel‑level compromise scenarios.
Source: CISA KEV – CVE‑2022‑22675