CVE-2024-54506 Overview
CVE-2024-54506 is an out-of-bounds access vulnerability affecting Apple macOS that allows attackers to cause unexpected system termination or execute arbitrary code in DCP (Display Co-Processor) firmware. The vulnerability was addressed through improved bounds checking in macOS Sequoia 15.2.
Critical Impact
This vulnerability enables attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code within the DCP firmware context, which could lead to complete system compromise, persistent firmware-level access, or denial of service through unexpected system termination.
Affected Products
- Apple macOS (versions prior to Sequoia 15.2)
Discovery Timeline
- 2024-12-12 - CVE-2024-54506 published to NVD
- 2025-11-03 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2024-54506
Vulnerability Analysis
This vulnerability exists in the Display Co-Processor (DCP) firmware component of Apple macOS. The DCP is a dedicated hardware component responsible for display rendering and related operations on Apple devices. When processing certain inputs, the firmware fails to properly validate array boundaries, allowing memory access outside of allocated buffer regions.
The out-of-bounds access condition (CWE-125) occurs due to insufficient bounds checking when handling data structures within the DCP firmware. This type of vulnerability can lead to information disclosure when reading beyond buffer boundaries, or more critically, arbitrary code execution when the out-of-bounds access can be leveraged to corrupt adjacent memory structures or control flow data.
The network-accessible attack vector combined with no required privileges or user interaction makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous. An attacker could potentially craft malicious inputs that, when processed by the DCP firmware, trigger the out-of-bounds condition and achieve code execution at the firmware level.
Root Cause
The root cause is improper bounds checking within the DCP firmware when processing input data. The firmware fails to adequately validate that array or buffer indices remain within legitimate bounds before accessing memory, resulting in the ability to read or write data outside the intended memory region.
Attack Vector
The vulnerability can be exploited remotely over a network without requiring authentication or user interaction. An attacker would need to deliver specially crafted input that triggers the out-of-bounds access condition in the DCP firmware. Due to the firmware-level nature of this vulnerability, successful exploitation could provide persistent access that survives operating system restarts.
The DCP firmware operates in a privileged context separate from the main operating system, meaning exploitation could bypass traditional OS-level security controls. This makes detection and remediation particularly challenging as the malicious code would execute within the firmware environment.
Detection Methods for CVE-2024-54506
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected system crashes or kernel panics related to display processing operations
- Anomalous DCP firmware behavior or errors in system logs
- Unusual network traffic patterns targeting display-related services
- System instability affecting display rendering without apparent cause
Detection Strategies
- Monitor system logs for DCP firmware-related errors or unexpected termination events
- Implement network traffic analysis to detect potential exploitation attempts
- Deploy endpoint detection solutions capable of monitoring firmware-level activity
- Establish baselines for normal DCP operations to identify anomalous behavior
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable comprehensive system logging to capture DCP firmware events
- Implement real-time alerting for system termination events attributed to DCP components
- Monitor for any signs of firmware modification or tampering
- Review network perimeter logs for suspicious traffic patterns targeting macOS systems
How to Mitigate CVE-2024-54506
Immediate Actions Required
- Update all affected macOS systems to Sequoia version 15.2 or later immediately
- Audit network access to macOS endpoints and implement appropriate segmentation
- Prioritize patching for internet-facing or high-value macOS systems
- Review systems for any indicators of compromise before and after patching
Patch Information
Apple has released a security update addressing this vulnerability in macOS Sequoia 15.2. The fix implements improved bounds checking to prevent out-of-bounds memory access in the DCP firmware. Organizations should review the Apple Support Article for detailed patch information and installation instructions. Additional technical details were disclosed via the Full Disclosure Mailing List.
Workarounds
- Implement network segmentation to limit exposure of unpatched macOS systems
- Restrict network access to affected systems using firewall rules until patching is complete
- Monitor affected systems closely for signs of exploitation
- Consider temporary isolation of critical systems that cannot be immediately patched
# Verify macOS version to confirm patch status
sw_vers -productVersion
# Expected output for patched systems: 15.2 or later
# Check for available software updates
softwareupdate --list
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
