CVE-2014-8829 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
SceneKit in Apple OS X before 10.10.2 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds write) via a crafted app.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/16/2024
CVE-2014-8829 represents a critical out-of-bounds write vulnerability affecting SceneKit, Apple's 3D graphics framework, in macOS versions prior to 10.10.2. This vulnerability resides within the SceneKit framework's handling of 3D scene data structures, specifically when processing malformed or crafted 3D models. The flaw manifests as an insufficient bounds checking mechanism that fails to validate array indices or memory allocation limits when parsing scene data, creating a condition where an attacker can manipulate input data to trigger memory corruption. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-129 weakness category, which encompasses issues related to insufficient validation of array indices, making it particularly dangerous as it allows for arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The technical implementation involves SceneKit's parser encountering specially crafted 3D model files that contain malformed data structures, causing the application to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries. This type of vulnerability is classified under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers can leverage the arbitrary code execution capability to run malicious payloads through compromised applications using SceneKit. When exploited, this vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise as the out-of-bounds write can overwrite critical memory segments including function pointers or return addresses, enabling privilege escalation. The impact extends beyond individual applications to potentially affect the entire operating system, as SceneKit is integrated into many macOS applications and services. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction, often occurring through malicious 3D content delivered via email attachments, web downloads, or compromised applications. Attackers can craft 3D model files that, when opened by any application utilizing SceneKit, trigger the memory corruption. The vulnerability affects not only native macOS applications but also third-party software that integrates SceneKit for 3D rendering capabilities, creating a broad attack surface. Organizations should note that this vulnerability aligns with the ATT&CK tactic T1548.001 for hijacking execution flow, as the memory corruption can redirect program execution to malicious code. The remediation approach focuses on updating to macOS 10.10.2 or later versions where Apple has implemented proper bounds checking and memory validation mechanisms. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of untrusted 3D content and monitor for unusual memory access patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation in graphics processing frameworks and highlights how seemingly benign 3D rendering components can become attack vectors when proper security controls are absent. Security professionals should treat this as a high-priority vulnerability requiring immediate attention, particularly in environments where users may encounter untrusted 3D content or where applications utilize SceneKit for rendering operations. The underlying flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition that has been addressed through improved memory management and validation checks in the updated operating system releases.