---
id: "CVE-2026-112438"
kind: "vulnerability"
aliases: ["CVE-2026-112438"]
title: "macOS: a logic flaw lets an unprivileged user run code as root"
severity: "high"
cvss: null
epss: null
exploited: false
status: "open"
category: "infrastructure"
products: []
ecosystems: []
tags: ["endpoints", "infrastructure", "macos", "shared-mac"]
not_affected_if: ["patched-macos"]
published_at: "2026-10-26T21:17:33+00:00"
first_seen_at: "2026-10-26T21:20:25+00:00"
updated_at: "2026-10-26T21:31:39+00:00"
sources: [{"source": "nvd", "url": "https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2026-112438", "first_seen_at": "2026-10-26T21:20:25+00:00"}]
---

# macOS: a logic flaw lets an unprivileged user run code as root

Apple fixed a logic issue in macOS state management that an unprivileged local user may exploit. Successful exploitation would let that user execute arbitrary code with root privileges.

_Summary, check and fix written by a model from the sources; labelled as such._

## How to check

- Run `sw_vers -productVersion` and compare against the fixed builds listed in the fix section.
- Check Software Update in System Settings for pending macOS security updates.

## Fix

- Update macOS to `27.2` (Golden Gate), `15.8.2` (Sequoia), or `26.7.2` (Tahoe), or later.

## Timeline

- 2026-10-26T21:20:25+00:00 nvd https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2026-112438

## From the sources

A logic issue was addressed with improved state management. This issue is fixed in macOS Golden Gate 27.2, macOS Sequoia 15.8.2, macOS Tahoe 26.7.2. An unprivileged attacker may be able to execute arbitrary code as root.

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_Free to read at a human pace. An API with keys and an MCP server are in preparation; early access: hello@infrastack.ai_