CVE-2007-0022 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in writeconfig in Apple Mac OS X 10.4.8 allows local users to gain privileges via a modified PATH that points to a malicious launchctl program.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0022 represents a classic untrusted search path issue affecting Apple Mac OS X 10.4.8 systems. This flaw resides within the writeconfig utility, which is part of the system's configuration management framework. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of the PATH environment variable during the execution of privileged system utilities, creating an exploitable condition that allows local attackers to manipulate the execution flow of critical system components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the writeconfig utility's reliance on the system PATH variable without proper sanitization or validation of the search directories. When a local user modifies the PATH environment variable to include a directory containing a malicious launchctl program, the system inadvertently executes the attacker-controlled binary instead of the legitimate system utility. This occurs because the writeconfig utility does not explicitly specify the full path to system binaries, instead relying on the PATH resolution mechanism to locate required executables. The vulnerability manifests as a privilege escalation vector, where unprivileged users can potentially execute code with elevated privileges through this manipulated execution path.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant security implications for Mac OS X systems running version 10.4.8. The attack requires local system access, making it less severe than remote exploitation vectors, but still poses a serious threat in environments where multiple users share systems or where system integrity is paramount. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-427, which specifically addresses uncontrolled search path elements, and demonstrates how improper PATH handling can lead to privilege escalation attacks. Security researchers have noted that this type of vulnerability often serves as a foundational entry point for more sophisticated attacks, as it can be leveraged to establish persistent access or to escalate privileges to system administrator levels.
The exploitation of CVE-2007-0022 follows patterns consistent with the attack tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation techniques. Attackers typically leverage such vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to system resources, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can be combined with other techniques to create more comprehensive attack chains. System administrators should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader security posture assessment, particularly in environments where user access controls are not properly enforced. The remediation approach involves ensuring that system utilities do not rely on untrusted PATH components and that proper privilege separation is maintained during execution. This vulnerability underscores the importance of implementing secure coding practices and proper environment variable handling in system-level software development.