CVE-2014-4396 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
An unspecified integrated graphics driver routine in the Intel Graphics Driver subsystem in Apple OS X before 10.9.5 does not properly validate calls, which allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in a privileged context via a crafted application, a different vulnerability than CVE-2014-4394, CVE-2014-4395, CVE-2014-4397, CVE-2014-4398, CVE-2014-4399, CVE-2014-4400, CVE-2014-4401, and CVE-2014-4416.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4396 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within Apple's operating system ecosystem, specifically targeting the Intel Graphics Driver subsystem. This issue affects macOS versions prior to 10.9.5 and demonstrates how graphics driver components can serve as attack vectors for executing malicious code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability resides in the integrated graphics driver routine that fails to properly validate incoming calls, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass system security mechanisms. This flaw operates at a fundamental level within the operating system's graphics processing architecture, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited without requiring physical access to the system or prior user authentication.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the graphics driver's kernel extension component. When applications interact with the graphics subsystem through the Intel Graphics Driver, the driver routine fails to adequately verify the legitimacy of these calls before executing privileged operations. This validation gap allows malicious applications to craft specific sequences of graphics API calls that appear legitimate to the driver but actually trigger unintended privileged execution paths. The flaw essentially creates a code execution sandbox that can be manipulated to gain root-level access, as the driver operates with elevated privileges to manage hardware resources. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability maps to CWE-119: Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer, and more specifically to CWE-20: Improper Input Validation, which directly enables the privilege escalation attack vector.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-4396 is severe and far-reaching within enterprise and individual computing environments. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise without user interaction. The attack requires only a crafted application that leverages the graphics driver's flawed validation mechanism, making it particularly insidious as it can be delivered through seemingly benign software. Once exploited, the attacker gains the ability to install malware, modify system files, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond immediate code execution, as it can be used as a foundation for more sophisticated attacks, including those targeting the broader operating system kernel or network infrastructure. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068: Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, which specifically addresses how attackers can leverage software vulnerabilities to gain higher privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-4396 primarily focus on immediate system updates and operational security measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to macOS 10.9.5 or later versions where Apple has implemented proper input validation within the graphics driver routines. System administrators should prioritize patch deployment across all affected systems and monitor for any exploitation attempts. Additional protective measures include implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unauthorized graphics-related applications, enabling kernel extension restrictions, and monitoring for unusual graphics driver activity. Network security teams should also consider implementing behavioral analysis tools that can detect anomalous graphics API usage patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of comprehensive driver security testing and proper privilege separation within operating system components, emphasizing the need for continuous security auditing of kernel extensions and system drivers. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools that can identify systems running vulnerable graphics driver versions and prioritize remediation efforts accordingly.