CVE-2006-1982 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the LZWDecodeVector function in Mac OS X before 10.4.6, as used in applications that use ImageIO or AppKit, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via crafted TIFF images.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/30/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-1982 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow affecting Mac OS X systems prior to version 10.4.6. This flaw specifically resides within the LZWDecodeVector function, which is part of the image processing infrastructure that handles TIFF file format decoding. The vulnerability manifests when applications utilizing ImageIO or AppKit frameworks process maliciously crafted TIFF images, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The underlying issue stems from insufficient bounds checking during the decompression of LZW-encoded data streams, allowing attackers to overflow heap memory buffers and potentially overwrite adjacent memory regions with malicious code.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to write past the end of allocated heap buffers. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it operates over remote networks, requiring no local privileges or user interaction beyond viewing the malicious image file. When a vulnerable application processes a crafted TIFF image, the LZWDecodeVector function fails to properly validate the size of decompressed data against the allocated buffer space, enabling attackers to inject arbitrary code into the target process memory. This flaw directly impacts the memory safety mechanisms of the operating system's image processing stack, particularly affecting applications built on the AppKit framework that rely on ImageIO for image handling operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a significant threat to system integrity and confidentiality. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to systems, escalate privileges, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the target environment. The widespread adoption of TIFF format across various applications and systems increases the attack surface significantly, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where image processing is common. From an attack chain perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised system. The vulnerability also relates to T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, since successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain elevated system privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-1982 primarily focus on immediate system updates and application hardening measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to Mac OS X 10.4.6 or later versions where Apple has implemented proper bounds checking in the LZWDecodeVector function. Additionally, system administrators should implement strict file validation policies for TIFF images, particularly in environments where untrusted image files may be processed. Network-level protections such as content filtering and sandboxing mechanisms can help reduce the risk of exploitation by preventing malicious TIFF files from reaching vulnerable applications. Security teams should also consider implementing runtime monitoring and intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious memory access patterns consistent with buffer overflow exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in image processing libraries, reinforcing industry standards such as those recommended by the CERT/CC for secure coding practices in multimedia processing applications.