CVE-2014-4399 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-2014-4396, CVE-2014-4397, CVE-2014-4398, 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-2014-4399 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the Intel Graphics Driver subsystem of Apple's macOS operating system. This issue affects versions prior to 10.9.5 and specifically targets the graphics driver routines that handle integrated graphics functionality. The flaw stems from inadequate validation mechanisms within the driver's call processing logic, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability operates at a low-level system interface where graphics driver components interact with the kernel, making it particularly dangerous as it can bypass standard security boundaries that typically protect system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a failure in input validation within the graphics driver's routine processing. When a crafted application attempts to make specific calls to the graphics driver, the system fails to properly validate these requests before executing them in a privileged context. This validation gap allows attackers to craft malicious inputs that, when processed by the driver, trigger unintended execution paths within the kernel space. The flaw operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework as a weakness in input validation, specifically categorized under CWE-20 which addresses "Improper Input Validation." The vulnerability enables attackers to escalate their privileges from standard user context to system-level access, fundamentally compromising the operating system's security model.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-4399 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise capabilities. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code with root privileges, potentially allowing them to install malware, modify system files, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors within the affected system. The attack vector requires only a crafted application, making it particularly concerning as it can be delivered through seemingly legitimate software or social engineering campaigns. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK framework techniques under privilege escalation and persistence, specifically targeting T1068 for bypassing security controls and T1059 for command and script execution. The impact is amplified by the fact that the vulnerability exists within a core system driver that is essential for graphics functionality, meaning exploitation affects virtually all macOS systems running vulnerable versions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-4399 primarily focus on immediate system updates and security hardening measures. Apple addressed this vulnerability through the release of macOS 10.9.5, which included patches to the Intel Graphics Driver subsystem that properly validate all incoming driver calls. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of this update across all affected systems. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies can help prevent exploitation by restricting execution of untrusted applications that might attempt to leverage this vulnerability. Network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect unusual graphics driver activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security administrators should also consider implementing kernel extension signing requirements and monitoring for unauthorized modifications to graphics driver components. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date system patches and highlights the risks associated with legacy driver implementations that may contain unaddressed security flaws.