CVE-2004-0087 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
The System Configuration subsystem in Mac OS 10.2.8 and 10.3.2 allows local users to modify network settings, a different vulnerability than CVE-2004-0088.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/15/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-0087 represents a significant security flaw within the System Configuration subsystem of Mac OS 10.2.8 and 10.3.2 operating systems. This issue specifically enables local users to manipulate network configuration parameters without proper authorization, creating a potential vector for malicious activity within the system. The vulnerability operates at the system level configuration layer, where network settings are managed and controlled, making it particularly concerning for environments where unauthorized modifications could compromise network integrity and security posture.
The technical flaw stems from insufficient access controls and privilege validation within the System Configuration subsystem. When local users interact with network configuration interfaces, the system fails to properly verify whether the user possesses adequate permissions to modify network settings. This weakness allows unauthorized individuals to bypass standard security protocols and alter critical network parameters such as IP addresses, DNS servers, gateway configurations, and other network-related settings. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-276, which addresses improper privileges, and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege that should govern all system operations.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates substantial risks for system administrators and end users alike. Local attackers who can exploit this weakness can potentially redirect network traffic, intercept communications, or disable network connectivity entirely. The implications extend beyond simple network disruption as these modifications can facilitate more sophisticated attacks such as man-in-the-middle operations, network reconnaissance, or even complete network isolation of affected systems. The vulnerability affects both Mac OS 10.2.8 and 10.3.2 versions, indicating it was present across a significant portion of the operating system's user base during that period, making it a widespread concern for organizations utilizing these systems.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is particularly concerning as it requires minimal privileges to exploit, essentially allowing any local user to modify system network configurations. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1063, which covers the modification of system settings, and demonstrates how local privilege escalation can lead to broader system compromise. The vulnerability's impact is amplified in enterprise environments where network configuration changes can affect entire network segments or cause cascading failures across interconnected systems. Organizations relying on Mac OS 10.2.8 and 10.3.2 for network operations face significant exposure to unauthorized network modifications that could compromise data integrity and confidentiality.
Effective mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-0087 should include immediate patching of affected systems to the latest available security updates from Apple. System administrators must implement strict access controls and monitor network configuration changes through audit logging mechanisms. The principle of least privilege should be enforced across all user accounts, ensuring that local users have only the minimum permissions necessary for their operational requirements. Network segmentation and monitoring tools should be deployed to detect unauthorized network configuration changes, while regular security assessments should verify that proper access controls are in place. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network access controls and firewall rules that can detect and prevent suspicious network modifications that may indicate exploitation of this vulnerability.