CVE-2014-4389 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in IOKit in Apple iOS before 8 and Apple TV before 7 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in a privileged context via an application that provides crafted API arguments.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2014-4389 represents a critical integer overflow condition within the IOKit framework of Apple's operating systems. This flaw exists in the kernel-level subsystem responsible for hardware device management and communication between user-space applications and kernel extensions. The vulnerability specifically affects iOS versions prior to 8.0 and Apple TV versions prior to 7.0, creating a persistent security risk across multiple Apple product lines that rely on the same underlying kernel components. IOKit serves as a foundational framework for device drivers and system-level interactions, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it operates at a privileged kernel level where malicious code execution can result in complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this integer overflow occurs when applications provide crafted API arguments to IOKit functions that handle memory allocation or buffer operations. When these arguments exceed the maximum value that can be represented by the integer data type used in the function, the overflow causes unexpected behavior in memory management routines. This overflow condition can lead to memory corruption, where adjacent memory locations are overwritten or corrupted, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate critical system data structures or overwrite function pointers. The vulnerability exploits the lack of proper input validation and bounds checking in the kernel-level IOKit functions, specifically in how they process user-supplied parameters that are expected to be within normal operating ranges. The flaw demonstrates poor defensive programming practices and inadequate parameter sanitization in kernel code, which is particularly concerning given that IOKit operates with elevated privileges and direct hardware access capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, bypassing standard security restrictions and access controls. Successful exploitation allows malicious applications to gain complete control over affected devices, potentially leading to data theft, system modification, persistent backdoor installation, and complete loss of device security. The privileged execution context means that attackers can manipulate core system functions, disable security features, modify system files, and establish persistent access to the device. This vulnerability essentially provides a pathway for attackers to circumvent all device-level security mechanisms, including code signing enforcement, sandboxing, and other protective measures that normally prevent malicious code from executing with elevated privileges. The attack vector requires only that a malicious application be installed on the device, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might inadvertently install compromised applications or where supply chain attacks could deliver malicious payloads.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening. The primary solution involves updating affected systems to iOS 8.0 or later versions and Apple TV 7.0 or later, where Apple has implemented proper bounds checking and integer overflow protections in the IOKit framework. Security patches typically include enhanced input validation, proper integer overflow detection mechanisms, and improved memory management routines within the kernel components. Organizations should also implement application whitelisting policies to prevent installation of untrusted applications, maintain up-to-date security monitoring systems to detect anomalous behavior patterns, and conduct regular security assessments of mobile device environments. From a defensive standpoint, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and demonstrates techniques commonly associated with ATT&CK tactic T1059, which involves executing malicious code through legitimate system processes. The vulnerability also reflects broader security principles related to secure coding practices and the importance of validating all inputs at kernel boundaries, as recommended by various security frameworks including the OWASP Top 10 and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.