CVE-2014-4351 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in QuickTime in Apple OS X before 10.10 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (application crash) via crafted audio samples in an m4a file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/23/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4351 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within Apple's QuickTime media framework affecting macOS versions prior to 10.10. This issue resides in the handling of audio samples within m4a files, which are widely used multimedia containers that support various audio codecs including advanced formats like AAC. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the QuickTime player's audio processing routines, creating a scenario where malformed audio data can trigger unexpected behavior in the application's memory allocation processes.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a maliciously crafted m4a file is processed by QuickTime, specifically during the parsing of audio sample data. When the application encounters audio samples that exceed predetermined buffer limits, the overflow condition causes the program to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries. This memory corruption can result in arbitrary code execution if an attacker can control the overflowed data or lead to application crashes that constitute a denial of service condition. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through simple media file playback, requiring no special privileges or user interaction beyond opening the malicious file.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant security risks for macOS users who may encounter malicious m4a files through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or compromised websites. The remote execution capability means that attackers can potentially compromise systems without requiring physical access or user interaction beyond standard media playback. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and demonstrates how improper memory management in multimedia frameworks can create persistent security risks. The exploitability is enhanced by the widespread use of QuickTime and the common practice of automatically playing media files in web browsers and email clients.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-4351 primarily focus on immediate system updates and security hardening measures. Apple addressed this vulnerability through the release of macOS 10.10, which included patched QuickTime components with improved input validation and memory management. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management programs to ensure all systems receive the necessary updates promptly. Additional protective measures include configuring email and web filtering systems to block suspicious m4a files, implementing sandboxing controls for media applications, and establishing user awareness training about the risks of opening unknown media files. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of following ATT&CK framework principles for defensive measures, particularly in mitigating techniques related to privilege escalation and execution through application sandbox bypasses. System administrators should monitor for indicators of compromise related to QuickTime process anomalies and implement network-based intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts.