CVE-2026-20610
Analyzed Analyzed - Analysis Complete
Symlink Handling Flaw in macOS Tahoe Allows Root Escalation

Publication date: 2026-02-11

Last updated on: 2026-02-13

Assigner: Apple Inc.

Description
This issue was addressed with improved handling of symlinks. This issue is fixed in macOS Tahoe 26.3. An app may be able to gain root privileges.
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Meta Information
Published
2026-02-11
Last Modified
2026-02-13
Generated
2026-06-16
AI Q&A
2026-02-12
EPSS Evaluated
2026-06-15
NVD
CVE-2026-20610
EUVD
EUVD-2026-6188
Affected Vendors & Products
Showing 1 associated CPE
Vendor Product Version / Range
apple macos to 26.3 (exc)
Helpful Resources
Exploitability
CWE
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KEV
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CWE ID Description
CWE-59 The product attempts to access a file based on the filename, but it does not properly prevent that filename from identifying a link or shortcut that resolves to an unintended resource.
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Impact Analysis

If exploited, this vulnerability could allow an application to escalate its privileges to root level, potentially giving it full control over the affected system.

Compliance Impact

I don't know

Detection Guidance

I don't know

Mitigation Strategies

The vulnerability is fixed in macOS Tahoe 26.3 by improved handling of symlinks. To mitigate this vulnerability, you should update your system to macOS Tahoe 26.3 or later.

Executive Summary

This vulnerability involves improper handling of symbolic links (symlinks) in macOS Tahoe. Due to this issue, an application may exploit the flaw to gain root privileges on the affected system.

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