CVE-2004-0486 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
HelpViewer in Mac OS X 10.3.3 and 10.2.8 processes scripts that it did not initiate, which can allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, an issue that was originally reported as a directory traversal vulnerability in the Safari web browser using the runscript parameter in a help: URI handler.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-0486 represents a critical security flaw in the HelpViewer component of Mac OS X versions 10.3.3 and 10.2.8. This issue stems from improper input validation and script execution handling within the help system that processes help: URI schemes. The vulnerability was initially identified as a directory traversal problem within Safari's help system but was later expanded to encompass the broader HelpViewer component. The core problem manifests when the HelpViewer processes scripts contained within help: URIs without adequate sanitization or validation of the script content, creating an avenue for malicious code execution. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-22, which describes directory traversal vulnerabilities, and CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code, as the system fails to properly control script execution within its help framework. The issue operates under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007, which involves executing malicious code through script interpreters, specifically targeting the help system's script processing capabilities.
The technical flaw in this vulnerability involves the HelpViewer's failure to properly validate or sanitize script content within help: URI handlers. When a user encounters a specially crafted help: URI containing malicious script content, the HelpViewer processes this script without proper isolation or security checks. This processing behavior allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code on the target system with the privileges of the HelpViewer process. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the legitimate help system functionality to deliver malicious payloads, making detection more difficult. The attack vector typically involves tricking users into clicking on malicious help: URIs that contain embedded scripts, often delivered through compromised websites or phishing attacks. The system's trust in its own help system components creates a dangerous attack surface where trusted processes become vectors for code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise potential. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, modify system files, steal user data, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects both Mac OS X 10.2.8 and 10.3.3 systems, representing a significant portion of the installed base at the time of discovery. Organizations running these versions face substantial risk as the vulnerability can be exploited through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers exploitation for privilege escalation, as the HelpViewer process typically runs with elevated privileges. Additionally, the vulnerability can facilitate further attacks by providing a foothold for lateral movement within networks, particularly in environments where users have access to the help system functionality.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-0486 focus on both immediate patching and operational security measures. The primary solution involves updating to Mac OS X versions that contain the security fixes for this vulnerability, specifically versions beyond 10.3.4 and 10.2.9. System administrators should implement strict web filtering and content validation to prevent users from accessing potentially malicious help: URIs. Network-based controls can help by blocking help: URI schemes at the firewall level or implementing proxy filtering that prevents access to suspicious help content. Users should be educated about the risks of clicking on untrusted links and the importance of keeping their systems updated. Security monitoring should include detection of help: URI access patterns and script execution attempts. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-22 and CWE-94 emphasizes the need for proper input validation and secure coding practices in system components, particularly those that process user-provided content. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict which applications can process help: URIs and execute scripts within the help system framework.