CVE-2015-3768 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the kernel in Apple iOS before 8.4.1 and OS X before 10.10.5 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in a privileged context via a crafted app that makes unspecified IOKit API calls.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-3768 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the kernel-level IOKit framework of Apple's operating systems. This vulnerability affects iOS versions prior to 8.4.1 and OS X versions prior to 10.10.5, creating a privilege escalation vector that enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The flaw specifically manifests when crafted applications make unspecified IOKit API calls, exploiting the underlying integer overflow condition to gain unauthorized system access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within kernel space operations, where integer overflow conditions allow attackers to manipulate memory layout and execution flow. The IOKit framework serves as the foundation for hardware device drivers and system-level interactions in Apple's operating systems, making it a prime target for privilege escalation attacks. When the kernel processes malformed input through IOKit calls, the integer overflow corrupts memory structures, potentially leading to code execution in kernel context. This class of vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and represents a fundamental breakdown in the kernel's input sanitization mechanisms. The vulnerability's exploitation requires an attacker to have a legitimate application installed on the target system, as the malicious app must make the specific IOKit API calls to trigger the overflow condition.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-3768 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as successful exploitation allows attackers to bypass system security controls and execute code with kernel-level privileges. This capability enables comprehensive system compromise including persistent backdoor installation, data exfiltration, and complete system control. The vulnerability's stealth nature makes detection particularly challenging since legitimate applications can make the required IOKit calls without raising immediate suspicion. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, modify system files, and potentially escalate to full administrative control. The impact affects both mobile and desktop environments, creating a unified attack surface across Apple's ecosystem. From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which describes the exploitation of legitimate credentials and system interfaces for privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-3768 primarily focus on system updates and patch management, with Apple releasing iOS 8.4.1 and OS X 10.10.5 to address the integer overflow conditions in kernel space. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management protocols to ensure all affected systems receive the necessary security updates. Additional protective measures include application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized app installation, monitoring for suspicious IOKit API call patterns, and maintaining up-to-date intrusion detection systems. Security professionals should also consider implementing kernel integrity protection mechanisms and monitoring for anomalous privilege escalation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of kernel-level security hardening and proper input validation in system frameworks. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should target kernel interfaces to identify similar integer overflow conditions that may exist in other system components. Organizations must maintain awareness of the evolving threat landscape and ensure that all system components, particularly those operating in kernel space, undergo rigorous security testing and validation.