CVE-2005-2501 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in AppKit for Mac OS X 10.3.9 and 10.4.2 allows external user-assisted attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted Rich Text Format (RTF) file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2501 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the AppKit framework of Mac OS X versions 10.3.9 and 10.4.2. This issue resides in the handling of Rich Text Format files, which are commonly used for document exchange across different applications. The buffer overflow occurs when the system processes malformed RTF content, specifically during the parsing of certain formatting elements that exceed predetermined memory boundaries. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations.
Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious RTF files that contain specially constructed data sequences designed to trigger the buffer overflow condition. The vulnerability requires user interaction since the malicious file must be opened by an unsuspecting user, making it a user-assisted attack vector rather than a fully automated exploit. When the vulnerable application processes the crafted RTF file, the overflow can corrupt program execution flow, potentially allowing an attacker to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the victim user. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution, as successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution within the target environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and establish persistent access to affected systems. The exploitation process typically involves overwriting return addresses or function pointers within the application's memory space, potentially allowing for privilege escalation attacks. Systems running the affected Mac OS X versions are particularly vulnerable because they lack proper input validation mechanisms for RTF file processing. The vulnerability affects multiple applications that rely on AppKit for document handling, including text editors and word processors, making it a widespread concern across the macOS ecosystem. Organizations should consider implementing strict file validation policies and user education programs to mitigate the risk of exploitation through crafted RTF documents.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation in application frameworks, particularly those handling rich text formats. The flaw highlights the need for comprehensive memory safety practices and regular security updates to address known vulnerabilities. Apple addressed this issue through subsequent security patches that improved bounds checking in the RTF parser and enhanced overall memory management within the AppKit framework. Organizations should ensure their systems are updated to versions that contain these security fixes, as unpatched systems remain susceptible to exploitation. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against buffer overflow exploits targeting core system components.