CVE-2015-1148 in MacOS X
Summary
by MITRE
Screen Sharing in Apple OS X before 10.10.3 stores the password of a user in a log file, which might allow context-dependent attackers to obtain sensitive information by reading this file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1148 represents a critical security flaw in Apple's operating system that affects versions prior to 10.10.3. This issue specifically pertains to the screen sharing functionality within OS X, where sensitive authentication credentials are inadvertently persisted in plaintext within log files. The flaw stems from improper handling of authentication data during screen sharing sessions, creating an information disclosure vulnerability that could be exploited by local attackers with access to the system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-200, which deals with improper exposure of sensitive information, and falls within the broader category of insecure logging practices that violate fundamental security principles.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when users establish screen sharing sessions through the OS X interface, particularly when authentication credentials are required for remote access. During these sessions, the system fails to properly sanitize authentication data before writing it to log files, resulting in plaintext passwords being stored in accessible locations on the filesystem. This creates a persistent exposure where any user with read access to the relevant log files can obtain the stored credentials. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and output handling practices, as the system does not adequately protect sensitive information during the logging process. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to bypass normal authentication mechanisms and gain unauthorized access to user accounts through previously captured credentials.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability significantly weakens the security posture of affected systems by providing attackers with a direct path to obtain user credentials without requiring additional exploitation techniques. The vulnerability affects all users of affected OS X versions who utilize screen sharing functionality, making it a widespread concern across enterprise and personal environments. The information disclosure occurs at the filesystem level, meaning that even users without direct network access can exploit this vulnerability if they can read the log files. This creates a persistent threat that remains active until the system is updated or the log files are manually cleaned, as the credentials remain accessible for extended periods. The vulnerability also violates the principle of least privilege by allowing unauthorized access to authentication data that should remain protected.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including credential access through file and directory permissions modification and privilege escalation through credential dumping. Attackers can leverage this flaw as part of a broader attack chain to establish persistence and maintain access to compromised systems. The vulnerability also demonstrates characteristics of technique T1078 which involves valid accounts, as attackers can use the obtained credentials to access user accounts without triggering additional authentication mechanisms. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to OS X 10.10.3 or later versions, reviewing log file permissions to restrict access, and implementing monitoring for unauthorized access to system log files. Additionally, administrators should consider disabling screen sharing functionality when not required and regularly audit system logs for potential credential exposure. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper input sanitization and secure logging practices in preventing information disclosure attacks that can compromise entire user environments.