CVE-2007-0463 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in Apple Software Update 2.0.5 on Mac OS X 10.4.8 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (application crash) or execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in (1) SWUTMP or (2) SUCATALOG filenames, or using the (3) application/x-apple.sucatalog+xml MIME type.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0463 represents a critical format string flaw in Apple Software Update version 2.0.5 running on Mac OS X 10.4.8 systems. This weakness resides in how the software processes user-supplied input during the handling of software update catalogs and temporary files. The vulnerability manifests when the application encounters specially crafted format string specifiers within SWUTMP or SUCATALOG filenames, or when processing content with the application/x-apple.sucatalog+xml MIME type. The root cause of this issue aligns with CWE-134, which specifically addresses format string vulnerabilities where program code uses user-supplied data as format strings without proper validation or sanitization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of input parameters that are directly passed to format string functions such as printf, sprintf, or related functions. When the Apple Software Update application processes these maliciously crafted filenames or MIME type data, it fails to properly validate or escape the input before using it in format string operations. This allows attackers to inject format specifiers that can manipulate the program's execution flow, potentially leading to stack corruption or memory access violations. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1203, where adversaries leverage application vulnerabilities to execute arbitrary code or cause system instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This represents a severe security risk given that the Apple Software Update service typically runs with elevated privileges and has access to system resources that could be leveraged for further exploitation. The vulnerability affects systems running Mac OS X 10.4.8 specifically, making it particularly concerning for organizations that may have legacy systems still running this version of the operating system. Attackers could potentially use this vulnerability to install malicious software, escalate privileges, or establish persistent access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-0463 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems with Apple's security updates. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to update services and monitor for suspicious activity related to software update requests. Additionally, system administrators should consider disabling automatic software updates on systems that cannot be immediately patched, while implementing proper input validation controls at network boundaries. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper format string handling in software development practices and reinforces the necessity of regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting controls to prevent unauthorized execution of potentially malicious code through compromised update processes.