CVE-2010-1254 in Open XML File Format Converter
Summary
by MITRE
The installation for Microsoft Open XML File Format Converter for Mac sets insecure ACLs for the /Applications folder, which allows local users to execute arbitrary code by replacing the executable with a Trojan Horse, aka "Mac Office Open XML Permissions Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/15/2021
The CVE-2010-1254 vulnerability represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in Microsoft Open XML File Format Converter for Mac installations. This vulnerability stems from improper access control list configuration during the software installation process, specifically affecting the /Applications folder permissions. The flaw creates a persistent security weakness that enables local attackers to gain elevated privileges through malicious file replacement techniques, fundamentally compromising the system's integrity and security posture.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the insecure default permissions assigned to the /Applications directory during installation. When Microsoft Open XML File Format Converter for Mac is installed, the installer fails to properly configure access controls, leaving the application directory with overly permissive settings. This misconfiguration creates a path for privilege escalation attacks where local users can manipulate the system by substituting legitimate executable files with malicious Trojan horses. The vulnerability specifically targets the lack of proper discretionary access control mechanisms that should prevent unauthorized modification of system applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-1254 extends beyond simple local privilege escalation to encompass broader system compromise potential. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially gaining complete control over the affected system. This weakness creates a persistent backdoor that remains active until the underlying permission issue is resolved, allowing attackers to maintain long-term access and execute malicious payloads without requiring additional authentication or system compromise. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security model of the Mac operating system by undermining the integrity of the application installation process.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which describes improper file permissions, and represents a classic example of insecure default configurations in software installation processes. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, the vulnerability maps to privilege escalation techniques and persistence mechanisms, specifically targeting T1068 (Local Privilege Escalation) and T1078 (Valid Accounts). The flaw demonstrates how installation processes can introduce security weaknesses that persist long after initial deployment, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where multiple users may have local access to systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1254 require immediate administrative intervention through manual permission correction and proper access control implementation. System administrators must verify and correct the ACLs on the /Applications folder to ensure proper discretionary access controls are enforced. The recommended approach involves implementing restrictive permissions that prevent unauthorized modification of system applications while maintaining legitimate user access. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive system audits to identify any other applications installed with similar permission vulnerabilities and ensure proper software installation practices that enforce secure default configurations. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to detect and remediate similar issues before they can be exploited by malicious actors.