CVE-2021-30855: A validation issue existed in the handling of symlinks. This issue was addressed with improved validation of symlinks. This issue is fixed in Security...

Description

A validation issue existed in the handling of symlinks. This issue was addressed with improved validation of symlinks. This issue is fixed in Security Update 2021-005 Catalina, iOS 14.8 and iPadOS 14.8, iOS 15 and iPadOS 15, watchOS 8, macOS Big Sur 11.6. An application may be able to access restricted files.

Metrics

CVSS 3.1

5.5/10

CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N

EPSS Probability

2.40%

82.0th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

Weakness Enumeration

CWE-59

Affected Software

Vendor	Product	Versions
Apple	Ipados	< 14.8
Apple	Iphone Os	< 14.8
Apple	Mac Os X	< 10.15.7
Apple	Mac Os X	10.15.7
Apple	Macos	< 11.6
Apple	Tvos	< 15.0
Apple	Watchos	< 8.0

References

Timeline

Published: Aug 24, 2021
Last Modified: Jun 17, 2026
Status: Modified

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2021-30855?

A validation issue existed in the handling of symlinks. This issue was addressed with improved validation of symlinks. This issue is fixed in Security Update 2021-005 Catalina, iOS 14.8 and iPadOS 14.8, iOS 15 and iPadOS 15, watchOS 8, macOS Big Sur 11.6. An application may be able to access restricted files.

How severe is CVE-2021-30855?

CVE-2021-30855 has a CVSS score of 5.5/10 (MEDIUM severity). The EPSS model estimates a 2.40% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

How do I fix CVE-2021-30855?

Check the vendor references and advisories linked above for patched versions and mitigation guidance. You can also run a Strix scan to test if your systems are affected.