CVE-2007-0740 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Alias Manager in Apple Mac OS X 10.3.9 and 10.4.9 does not display files with the same name in mounted disk images that have the same name, which might allow user-assisted attackers to trick a user into executing malicious files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-0740 resides within the Alias Manager component of Apple Mac OS X versions 10.3.9 and 10.4.9, representing a classic case of user interface deception that exploits the operating system's file handling mechanisms. This flaw specifically manifests when users interact with mounted disk images containing files that share identical names, creating a scenario where the system's visual representation becomes misleading and potentially dangerous.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from the Alias Manager's inadequate handling of file name collisions within mounted disk images. When multiple files with identical names exist across different locations within the same mounted volume, the system fails to properly distinguish between them in its display interface. This behavior creates a situation where attackers can craft malicious files with names that match legitimate system files, potentially causing users to inadvertently execute harmful code. The vulnerability operates under CWE-691, which classifies it as an insufficient control of a resource through reuse, specifically in the context of file name handling and user interface representation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file confusion, as it creates a sophisticated social engineering attack vector that leverages user trust in familiar system interfaces. An attacker could mount a disk image containing a malicious file named identically to a legitimate system utility or application that users commonly interact with. When users see what appears to be a normal system file in their mounted volume, they may unknowingly execute the malicious version, potentially leading to privilege escalation, code execution, or other harmful outcomes. This attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as the malicious execution could involve shell scripts or other executable components.
The security implications of this vulnerability are particularly concerning given that it requires only user interaction to be exploited, making it a prime candidate for phishing attacks or social engineering campaigns. Users typically trust familiar file names and system interfaces, making the deception more effective when attackers can manipulate the visual presentation of files to appear legitimate. The vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly benign user interface design choices can create significant security risks when they fail to properly account for edge cases in file name handling and presentation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on both immediate operational responses and longer-term system hardening measures. Users should avoid mounting disk images from untrusted sources and should always verify the contents of mounted volumes before executing any files, particularly those with names that match system utilities. System administrators should consider implementing file name validation policies and establishing procedures for reviewing mounted volumes. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular system updates, as Apple would have addressed this issue in subsequent releases through improved file name handling and user interface presentation logic. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of unauthorized binaries, regardless of their file name or location within mounted volumes.