CVE-2008-1517 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Array index error in the xnu (Mach) kernel in Apple Mac OS X 10.5 before 10.5.7 allows local users to gain privileges or cause a denial of service (system shutdown) via unspecified vectors related to workqueues.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/27/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1517 represents a critical array index error within the xnu kernel, which serves as the core operating system kernel for Apple Mac OS X 10.5 versions prior to 10.5.7. This flaw exists within the Mach kernel component that manages system resources and process scheduling through workqueue mechanisms. The issue stems from improper bounds checking during array access operations, creating a potential avenue for exploitation that could result in privilege escalation or system instability. The vulnerability specifically affects the workqueue subsystem which handles asynchronous task execution and kernel thread management, making it particularly dangerous as it operates at the most privileged level of the operating system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves an array index error that occurs when the kernel processes workqueue operations. When the xnu kernel handles workqueue-related tasks, it fails to properly validate array indices before accessing kernel memory structures, potentially allowing an attacker to manipulate memory access patterns. This type of flaw typically falls under CWE-129, which describes "Improper Validation of Array Index" and is categorized as a memory safety issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by its location within the kernel, where any successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise or denial of service conditions.
The operational implications of CVE-2008-1517 extend beyond simple privilege escalation capabilities, as local attackers with minimal system access can leverage this flaw to either gain administrative privileges or force system shutdowns. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects a fundamental kernel component that handles critical system operations, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate the workqueue subsystem to execute malicious code with kernel-level privileges. The flaw's potential for causing system shutdowns represents a denial of service vector that could be exploited to disrupt critical services or render systems unusable, while the privilege escalation component could enable persistent access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate system updates to Mac OS X 10.5.7 or later versions, as Apple released patches specifically addressing the array index error in the xnu kernel's workqueue implementation. System administrators should prioritize patch deployment across all affected systems, particularly those running Mac OS X 10.5.6 or earlier versions. Additional defensive measures include implementing kernel extension restrictions, monitoring for unusual workqueue activity patterns, and maintaining comprehensive system logging to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework would place it within the privilege escalation and defense evasion categories, specifically targeting kernel-level modifications and system stability compromise techniques that align with the T1068 and T1566 sub-techniques. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit local user privileges and reduce the attack surface available to potential exploiters.