CVE-2010-1794 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
The webdav_mount function in webdav_vfsops.c in the WebDAV kernel extension (aka webdav_fs.kext) for Mac OS X 10.6 allows local users to cause a denial of service (panic) via a mount request with a large integer in the pa_socket_namelen field.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1794 resides within the WebDAV kernel extension of Mac OS X 10.6, specifically in the webdav_mount function located in webdav_vfsops.c. This flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition that occurs when processing mount requests for WebDAV filesystems, creating a potential pathway for denial of service attacks that can crash the entire operating system kernel. The vulnerability manifests when a local attacker crafts a malicious mount request with an excessively large integer value in the pa_socket_namelen field, which bypasses proper input validation mechanisms within the kernel extension.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the kernel-level WebDAV filesystem driver. When the webdav_mount function processes incoming mount requests, it fails to properly validate the size parameter contained within the pa_socket_namelen field, allowing an attacker to specify an integer value that exceeds the expected range. This unchecked integer value subsequently leads to improper memory allocation or buffer manipulation within kernel space, ultimately resulting in a system panic that terminates the operating system's ability to function properly. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by any local user with access to the system, regardless of their administrative privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-1794 extends beyond simple denial of service, as it represents a critical security weakness in Apple's kernel extension architecture. When exploited, this vulnerability can cause complete system crashes requiring manual reboot, potentially leading to data loss or service disruption in environments where continuous operation is critical. The vulnerability affects the broader Mac OS X 10.6 ecosystem and demonstrates weaknesses in kernel extension input validation that could be leveraged by attackers to escalate privileges or create persistent access points. This flaw aligns with CWE-129, which describes improper validation of length fields, and represents a significant concern for enterprise environments where local privilege escalation risks are particularly problematic.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1794 should focus on immediate patching of the affected Mac OS X 10.6 systems, as Apple released security updates to address this specific vulnerability. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring for unauthorized mount attempts and consider disabling WebDAV filesystem functionality when not actively required. Network segmentation and privilege separation measures can help limit the potential impact of local exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of kernel extension security reviews and proper input validation practices, as outlined in the ATT&CK framework's defense evasion techniques. System administrators should ensure that all kernel extensions undergo security assessments and that proper access controls are implemented to prevent unauthorized modifications to system-critical components. Regular security audits of kernel modules and proactive patch management remain essential defensive measures against similar vulnerabilities in the operating system's core functionality.