CVE-2026-20614
Path Validation Flaw in macOS Allows Privilege Escalation to Root
Publication date: 2026-02-11
Last updated on: 2026-04-02
Assigner: Apple Inc.
Description
Description
CVSS Scores
EPSS Scores
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Meta Information
Affected Vendors & Products
| Vendor | Product | Version / Range |
|---|---|---|
| apple | macos | From 15.0 (inc) to 15.7.4 (exc) |
| apple | macos | From 26.0 (inc) to 26.3 (exc) |
| apple | macos | From 14.0 (inc) to 14.8.4 (exc) |
Helpful Resources
Exploitability
| CWE ID | Description |
|---|---|
| CWE-22 | The product uses external input to construct a pathname that is intended to identify a file or directory that is located underneath a restricted parent directory, but the product does not properly neutralize special elements within the pathname that can cause the pathname to resolve to a location that is outside of the restricted directory. |
Attack-Flow Graph
AI Powered Q&A
Can you explain this vulnerability to me?
This vulnerability is related to a path handling issue in certain versions of macOS. The problem was that the system did not properly validate file paths, which could be exploited by an application.
Due to this improper validation, a malicious app might be able to gain root privileges, meaning it could execute actions with the highest level of system access.
The issue has been fixed in macOS Sequoia 15.7.4, macOS Tahoe 26.3, and macOS Sonoma 14.8.4 by improving the validation of file paths.
How can this vulnerability impact me? :
If exploited, this vulnerability could allow an application to gain root privileges on your macOS device.
With root privileges, the malicious app could perform unauthorized actions such as modifying system files, installing malware, or accessing sensitive data.
This could compromise the security and integrity of your system and data.
How does this vulnerability affect compliance with common standards and regulations (like GDPR, HIPAA)?:
I don't know
How can this vulnerability be detected on my network or system? Can you suggest some commands?
I don't know
What immediate steps should I take to mitigate this vulnerability?
To mitigate this vulnerability, update your macOS system to one of the fixed versions: macOS Sequoia 15.7.4, macOS Tahoe 26.3, or macOS Sonoma 14.8.4.