CVE-2011-3230 in Safari
Summary
by MITRE
Apple Safari before 5.1.1 on Mac OS X does not enforce an intended policy for file: URLs, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted web site.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-3230 represents a critical security flaw in Apple Safari web browser versions prior to 5.1.1 on Mac OS X operating systems. This issue stems from insufficient enforcement of file URL access controls that should have prevented unauthorized execution of code through web-based attacks. The flaw specifically targets the browser's handling of file: URLs which are designed to access local files on the system, creating a dangerous privilege escalation scenario when improperly managed.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs due to Safari's inadequate validation of file URL schemes when processing web content. When a malicious website attempts to load content through file: URLs, the browser fails to properly restrict access to local system resources, allowing remote attackers to craft web pages that can execute arbitrary code on the target system. This bypasses the expected security boundaries that should prevent web content from directly accessing local file systems. The flaw operates at the application layer of the network stack and leverages the browser's trust model for local file access, creating a pathway for privilege escalation attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables remote code execution attacks that can compromise entire user sessions. Attackers can exploit this flaw by hosting malicious web content that when loaded in Safari triggers the execution of arbitrary code with the privileges of the logged-in user. This creates opportunities for malware deployment, data exfiltration, and further system compromise. The vulnerability affects all Mac OS X users running Safari versions before 5.1.1, making it particularly dangerous given the widespread adoption of Apple's operating system. The attack vector is straightforward and can be delivered through standard web browsing activities without requiring additional user interaction beyond visiting the malicious site.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-3230 primarily involve updating to Safari 5.1.1 or later versions where Apple has implemented proper enforcement of file URL access controls. System administrators should prioritize immediate patch deployment across all affected Mac OS X systems to eliminate this attack vector. Additional protective measures include implementing browser security policies that restrict file URL access, using network monitoring tools to detect suspicious file access patterns, and educating users about the risks of visiting untrusted websites. Organizations should also consider deploying web application firewalls and implementing strict access controls for local file system resources. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-264, which addresses permissions, privileges, and access controls, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting the execution of malicious code through web browser vulnerabilities. The fix implemented by Apple addresses the root cause by strengthening the validation mechanisms for file URL processing and ensuring proper enforcement of access control policies for local system resources.