CVE-2011-0260 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
The CoreProcesses component in Apple Mac OS X 10.7 before 10.7.2 does not prevent a system window from receiving keystrokes in the locked-screen state, which might allow physically proximate attackers to bypass intended access restrictions by typing into this window.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2011-0260 represents a significant security flaw in Apple Mac OS X 10.7 operating system versions prior to 10.7.2. This issue affects the CoreProcesses component which manages critical system functions including screen locking mechanisms. The flaw manifests as a failure in the system's security model where the locked screen state does not properly enforce input restrictions, creating an exploitable condition that undermines the fundamental purpose of screen locking. The vulnerability specifically targets the window management system's handling of user input events during the authentication process, allowing unauthorized access through seemingly innocuous keyboard interactions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the CoreProcesses framework. When a Mac system enters a locked state, the expected behavior is to completely isolate user input from system windows to prevent unauthorized access. However, the flaw allows keystrokes to be processed by system windows even while the screen is locked, effectively creating a backdoor for attackers who can manipulate the system through keyboard input without proper authentication. This issue falls under the CWE-284 access control weakness category, specifically related to improper privileges and insufficient input validation. The vulnerability operates at the operating system kernel level where window management and input handling intersect, making it particularly dangerous as it bypasses the normal authentication flow that should protect system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential data breaches and system compromise. Physically proximate attackers can exploit this condition to gain access to protected system functions, potentially leading to privilege escalation or unauthorized modification of system settings. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal technical skill and can be executed by anyone with physical access to the device during the locked state. This weakness aligns with ATT&CK technique T1547.001 for account manipulation and T1078.004 for valid accounts, as the attacker can leverage legitimate system windows to bypass the screen lock mechanism. The vulnerability essentially creates a window of opportunity where the system's intended security controls fail, allowing attackers to perform actions that should require proper authentication.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including prompt installation of the macOS 10.7.2 update which addresses this specific vulnerability through enhanced input validation in the CoreProcesses component. Organizations should also consider implementing additional physical security measures such as device encryption and automatic screen locking policies to reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input handling in security-critical components and highlights the need for comprehensive testing of system lock mechanisms. Regular security assessments should include verification of screen lock functionality and input event handling to prevent similar issues from arising in other system components. This vulnerability serves as a reminder that even seemingly minor flaws in core system processes can create significant security risks when they affect fundamental access control mechanisms.