macOS Unauthorized File Delete via Path Flaw (pre-15.7.5/14.8.5/26.4)
CVE-2026-28816 Published on March 25, 2026
A path handling issue was addressed with improved validation. This issue is fixed in macOS Sequoia 15.7.5, macOS Sonoma 14.8.5, macOS Tahoe 26.4. An app may be able to delete files for which it does not have permission.
Vulnerability Analysis
CVE-2026-28816 is exploitable with local system access, and does not require authorization privileges or user interaction. This vulnerability is considered to have a low attack complexity. The potential impact of an exploit of this vulnerability is considered to have no impact on confidentiality, with no impact on integrity, and no impact on availability.
Weakness Type
What is a Directory traversal Vulnerability?
The software 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 software 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.
CVE-2026-28816 has been classified to as a Directory traversal vulnerability or weakness.
Products Associated with CVE-2026-28816
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Affected Versions
Apple macOS:- Before 14.8.5 is affected.
- Before 15.7.5 is affected.
- Before 26.4 is affected.
Exploit Probability
EPSS (Exploit Prediction Scoring System) scores estimate the probability that a vulnerability will be exploited in the wild within the next 30 days. The percentile shows you how this score compares to all other vulnerabilities.