CVE-2010-0523 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Wiki Server in Apple Mac OS X 10.5.8 does not restrict the file types of uploaded files, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information or possibly have unspecified other impact via a crafted file, as demonstrated by a Java applet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/04/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0523 affects Apple Mac OS X 10.5.8 Wiki Server implementation, representing a critical security flaw in the file upload handling mechanism. This issue stems from inadequate file type validation and restriction within the web server component that powers the wiki functionality on macOS systems. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to upload malicious files without proper content filtering, creating potential pathways for unauthorized access and system compromise.
The technical flaw manifests in the Wiki Server's failure to implement proper file type validation controls during the upload process. This weakness specifically affects the handling of Java applets and other potentially dangerous file formats that could execute code when processed by the web server. The vulnerability lacks proper MIME type checking and file extension validation, allowing attackers to bypass security measures that should prevent execution of potentially harmful content. This represents a classic example of insufficient input validation, which falls under CWE-20 - Improper Input Validation, and more specifically CWE-434 - Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as demonstrated by the Java applet exploitation vector. Attackers could potentially upload malicious Java applets that, when accessed through the wiki interface, could execute arbitrary code on the target system. This could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or serve as a foothold for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems, particularly in enterprise environments where wikis are commonly used for collaborative documentation and information sharing.
The security implications are particularly severe given that the vulnerability affects a widely used operating system version and a core web server functionality. Organizations running Mac OS X 10.5.8 systems with active wiki servers face significant risk of exploitation, especially in environments where the wiki is accessible to external users. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it represents an attack surface that can be exploited through web-based interfaces. The lack of file type restrictions creates an attack vector that could be leveraged for privilege escalation, lateral movement, or persistent access within compromised networks.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the latest security patches from Apple, implementing strict file type validation on all upload mechanisms, and restricting wiki server access to trusted users only. Network segmentation and monitoring of file upload activities can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The recommended approach includes configuring proper MIME type checking, implementing file content analysis, and establishing robust access controls to prevent unauthorized file uploads. Additionally, regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other web applications and server configurations that may be vulnerable to similar exploitation techniques.