CVE-2014-4401 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-2014-4399, CVE-2014-4400, and CVE-2014-4416.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4401 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the Intel Graphics Driver subsystem of Apple's macOS operating system. This issue affects versions prior to macOS 10.9.5 and resides in the integrated graphics driver routines that handle graphics processing operations. The flaw stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the driver's call handling procedures, creating a pathway for malicious code execution with elevated privileges. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a specially designed application that triggers the flawed validation routine, ultimately gaining unauthorized access to privileged execution contexts within the operating system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-119, which addresses improper restriction of operations within a defined access control scope, and CWE-20, which covers input validation issues that can lead to code execution. The flaw operates at the kernel level within the graphics driver component, where legitimate driver calls should be properly validated before execution. However, the missing validation allows attackers to manipulate the driver interface in ways that bypass normal access controls, enabling arbitrary code execution with system-level privileges. This type of vulnerability represents a classic privilege escalation vector that can be exploited by malicious applications to gain unauthorized control over system resources.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to macOS systems running affected versions. The attack requires only a crafted application to be executed, making it particularly dangerous as it can be delivered through various attack vectors including malicious websites, email attachments, or compromised applications. Once exploited, the attacker gains the ability to execute code with root privileges, potentially allowing for complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or installation of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's classification as a privilege escalation flaw means that successful exploitation can lead to full system control without requiring additional authentication or specialized attack capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-4401 primarily focus on immediate system updates to macOS 10.9.5 or later versions where Apple has implemented proper validation mechanisms within the graphics driver subsystem. System administrators should prioritize patching affected systems and monitor for any suspicious activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additional defensive measures include implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted applications, enabling system integrity protection features, and maintaining comprehensive monitoring of system logs for unusual graphics driver activity. Organizations should also consider network-based intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts and ensure that all endpoints are regularly updated to maintain protection against similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date system components and highlights the risks associated with graphics driver vulnerabilities in operating system security models.