CVE-2026-28888
Race Condition in macOS Allows Privilege Escalation to Root
Publication date: 2026-03-25
Last updated on: 2026-03-25
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-362 | The product contains a concurrent code sequence that requires temporary, exclusive access to a shared resource, but a timing window exists in which the shared resource can be modified by another code sequence operating concurrently. |
Attack-Flow Graph
AI Powered Q&A
Can you explain this vulnerability to me?
This vulnerability is a race condition issue in certain versions of macOS. A race condition occurs when the behavior of software depends on the sequence or timing of uncontrollable events, potentially leading to unexpected behavior. In this case, the race condition could allow an application to gain root privileges by exploiting improper state handling.
How can this vulnerability impact me? :
If exploited, this vulnerability could allow an application to gain root privileges on affected macOS systems. Root privileges provide full control over the system, which could lead to unauthorized access, modification, or deletion of data, installation of malicious software, and overall compromise of system security.
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.