CVE-2014-8830 in MacOS X
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in SceneKit in Apple OS X before 10.10.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (application crash) via a crafted accessor element in a Collada file.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2014-8830 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw within Apple's SceneKit framework affecting macOS versions prior to 10.10.2. This issue arises from insufficient input validation when processing Collada file format elements, specifically within the accessor element handling mechanism. The vulnerability manifests when SceneKit attempts to parse maliciously crafted Collada files that contain oversized or malformed accessor data structures, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited by remote attackers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking during the parsing of Collada XML elements within SceneKit's rendering pipeline. When a Collada file contains an accessor element with malformed size parameters or excessive data allocation requests, the underlying heap memory management routines fail to validate the requested buffer sizes against available heap space. This allows attackers to overwrite adjacent heap memory regions with controlled data, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution through stack or heap corruption. The vulnerability operates at the application level where SceneKit processes 3D model data, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through legitimate file processing workflows.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple application crashes to encompass full system compromise potential. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw by delivering malicious Collada files through various attack vectors including web downloads, email attachments, or compromised websites. When a user opens or previews such files within applications that utilize SceneKit, the buffer overflow occurs during the automatic processing of 3D content, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. The denial of service aspect manifests as application crashes that can be exploited for persistent availability attacks, while the code execution capability provides a pathway for privilege escalation and persistent system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-8830 require immediate patch application to macOS systems, with Apple releasing security updates for macOS 10.10.2 and later versions. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies for Collada and other 3D model formats, particularly when processing files from untrusted sources. Network-level defenses including web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help prevent delivery of malicious Collada files. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow classification and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for remote code execution through application vulnerabilities. Security monitoring should focus on unusual memory allocation patterns and application crash reports related to SceneKit processing, while system administrators should maintain updated threat intelligence feeds to identify potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability.