CVE-2026-28816
Path Validation Flaw in macOS Allows Unauthorized File Deletion
Publication date: 2026-03-25
Last updated on: 2026-03-26
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 14.0 (inc) to 14.8.5 (exc) |
| apple | macos | From 15.0 (inc) to 15.7.5 (exc) |
| apple | macos | From 26.0 (inc) to 26.4 (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 a path handling issue in certain versions of macOS (Sequoia 15.7.5, Sonoma 14.8.5, Tahoe 26.4) that was addressed by improving validation. Due to this issue, an application may be able to delete files for which it does not have permission.
How can this vulnerability impact me? :
The vulnerability could allow an application to delete files without having the proper permissions. This could lead to unauthorized data loss or disruption of important files on the affected macOS systems.
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 15.7.5, macOS Sonoma 14.8.5, or macOS Tahoe 26.4.