CVE-2014-1371 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Array index error in Dock in Apple OS X before 10.9.4 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (incorrect function-pointer dereference and application crash) by leveraging access to a sandboxed application for sending a message.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/08/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-1371 represents a critical array index error within the Dock component of Apple's macOS operating system. This flaw exists in versions prior to 10.9.4 and manifests as an incorrect function-pointer dereference that can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability specifically affects the Dock's message handling mechanism, creating a pathway for unauthorized code execution or system disruption. The flaw is particularly concerning because it can be leveraged by attackers who already have access to a sandboxed application, which significantly reduces the attack surface requirements for exploitation.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the Dock's internal array handling routines. When the Dock receives messages from sandboxed applications, it processes these communications through a function pointer mechanism that fails to properly validate array indices. This incorrect function-pointer dereference creates a condition where an attacker can manipulate the memory layout to redirect execution flow to arbitrary code locations. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as an insufficient bounds checking issue, which directly relates to improper validation of array indices and memory access operations. This type of flaw represents a classic example of how improper input validation can lead to arbitrary code execution in system components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to include potential denial of service conditions that can crash the entire Dock application or even cause system instability. When exploited successfully, the vulnerability can cause the Dock to crash repeatedly, leading to a degraded user experience and potentially affecting system stability. The sandboxed application access requirement means that attackers must first gain foothold within the system's restricted environment, but once achieved, they can leverage this privilege escalation to cause significant disruption. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" and demonstrates how seemingly limited access can be amplified through system component flaws.
The exploitation of CVE-2014-1371 requires an attacker to first compromise a sandboxed application, which provides them with the necessary access to communicate with the Dock component. This communication can then be crafted to manipulate the array indexing logic and trigger the incorrect function-pointer dereference. The vulnerability's impact is particularly significant in enterprise environments where users may have access to sandboxed applications, creating a vector for both persistent attacks and system-wide disruption. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability highlights the importance of thorough bounds checking in system components, especially those that handle inter-process communication and user input. The remediation strategy involves updating to macOS 10.9.4 or later versions where Apple has implemented proper bounds checking and memory validation mechanisms. Organizations should also consider implementing additional monitoring for unusual Dock behavior and ensure that sandboxed applications are properly configured to limit potential exploitation vectors. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of how subtle memory management errors in system components can create significant security risks when combined with proper exploitation techniques and access to restricted environments.