CVE-2007-0728 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in Apple Mac OS X 10.3.9 and 10.4 through 10.4.8 creates files insecurely while initializing a USB printer, which allows local users to create or overwrite arbitrary files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/16/2019
This vulnerability resides in Apple Mac OS X versions 10.3.9 through 10.4.8 where the system fails to properly secure file creation operations during USB printer initialization processes. The unspecified nature of the flaw suggests a fundamental weakness in the file handling mechanisms that govern how temporary or configuration files are created when connecting USB printing devices to the system. The vulnerability manifests as a privilege escalation risk where local users can manipulate the file creation process to either generate new files or overwrite existing ones with malicious content, effectively bypassing normal access controls and system protections.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insecure file creation practices that violate established security principles. During USB printer initialization, the system likely creates temporary files or configuration data without proper access control mechanisms or secure temporary file naming conventions. This insecure approach allows attackers to predict file locations or manipulate the creation sequence to place malicious content in targeted locations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-362, which addresses race conditions in file operations, and CWE-276, which covers improper file permissions and access controls. Attackers can exploit this weakness to place malicious code in system directories or overwrite legitimate files, potentially leading to persistent backdoors or system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file manipulation capabilities as it provides a foothold for more sophisticated attacks within the local system environment. Local users who can access the system can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges or establish persistence mechanisms by creating or overwriting critical system files. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges and leverages legitimate system functions, making detection more difficult. This weakness can enable attackers to modify system configurations, inject malicious code into system processes, or create unauthorized access points. The vulnerability operates within the ATT&CK framework under the T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) and T1068 (Exploitation for Privilege Escalation) techniques, as it allows local users to manipulate system files to achieve elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate system updates and enhanced file system security measures. Apple's subsequent releases addressed this vulnerability through improved file creation practices and enhanced access controls during device initialization processes. System administrators should ensure all Mac OS X systems are updated to patched versions, particularly those running 10.4.9 or later where the vulnerability has been resolved. Additional protective measures include implementing proper file system permissions, monitoring for unauthorized file creation in system directories, and conducting regular security audits of USB device handling processes. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices in system-level operations and demonstrates how seemingly benign device initialization processes can create security risks when proper file handling procedures are not followed. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for suspicious file creation patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts.