CVE-2014-8833 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
SpotlightIndex in Apple OS X before 10.10.2 does not properly perform deserialization during access to a permission cache, which allows local users to read search results associated with other users protected files via a Spotlight query.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/16/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-8833 resides within Apple's SpotlightIndex component of macOS operating systems prior to version 10.10.2. This flaw represents a critical access control bypass that undermines the fundamental security assumptions of file permissions and user isolation within the operating system. The vulnerability specifically affects the deserialization process that occurs when Spotlight accesses a permission cache, creating an unintended information disclosure channel that exposes sensitive data across user boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of serialized data structures within the Spotlight indexing mechanism. When Spotlight performs searches, it accesses cached permission information to determine which files a user should be able to access. However, the deserialization process fails to properly validate the integrity and authenticity of cached permission data, allowing malicious local users to manipulate this cache in ways that reveal search results associated with files belonging to other users. This deserialization flaw creates a path where unauthorized data access can occur through legitimate Spotlight query mechanisms rather than through direct system exploitation.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables local privilege escalation and information disclosure attacks that can have severe consequences for system security. An attacker with local access can leverage this weakness to discover and potentially access files that should be restricted to other users, including sensitive documents, personal communications, and system configuration files. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure as it can facilitate further attacks by providing attackers with knowledge of system structure and user data patterns. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in multi-user environments where users may not trust each other, as it completely undermines the principle of least privilege that is fundamental to operating system security.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-502 which describes "Deserialization of Untrusted Data" as a critical weakness that can lead to arbitrary code execution or data exposure. From an adversary perspective, this vulnerability maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1005 (Data from Local System) and T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) as attackers can use the information gathered through Spotlight queries to plan more sophisticated attacks. The attack vector requires only local system access, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with legitimate user credentials on the system, including malicious insiders or attackers who have gained initial access through other means.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-8833 primarily involve upgrading to Apple macOS version 10.10.2 or later, which includes the necessary patches to properly handle deserialization of permission cache data. System administrators should also implement additional monitoring of Spotlight-related processes and access patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and user access controls should be reviewed to minimize the impact of potential information disclosure. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure deserialization practices, particularly in system components that handle user data and access control information. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely deployment of security updates and maintain visibility into their system's security posture through regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing.