CVE-2015-5754 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Race condition in runner in Install.framework in the Install Framework Legacy component in Apple OS X before 10.10.5 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in a privileged context via a crafted app that leverages incorrect privilege dropping associated with a locking error.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-5754 represents a critical race condition within the Install Framework Legacy component of Apple's operating system, specifically affecting versions prior to macOS 10.10.5. This flaw exists within the runner functionality of Install.framework, which is responsible for handling installation processes and system modifications. The vulnerability stems from improper privilege management during the execution of installation tasks, creating a window where malicious actors can exploit the system's security model.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a race condition that occurs when the system attempts to drop privileges during installation operations. When a crafted application attempts to leverage this flaw, it exploits an incorrect privilege dropping mechanism that is associated with a locking error within the Install Framework. This locking error creates a temporal gap where the system's privilege levels are not properly enforced, allowing an attacker to execute code with elevated privileges. The flaw specifically relates to how the system handles file locking mechanisms during installation processes, where the race condition enables malicious code execution in a privileged context.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe threat to system security as it allows attackers to bypass normal privilege boundaries and execute arbitrary code with root-level permissions. The attack vector requires a crafted application that can manipulate the installation framework's locking behavior, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might unknowingly install malicious software. The privilege escalation aspect of this vulnerability means that successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, including the ability to modify system files, install persistent backdoors, and access sensitive user data.
The impact of CVE-2015-5754 aligns with CWE-362, which describes race conditions that can lead to privilege escalation vulnerabilities. This classification reflects the fundamental nature of the flaw where timing-dependent operations create security weaknesses. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation,' as it specifically enables attackers to gain elevated system privileges through exploitation of the race condition. The attack requires minimal user interaction beyond installation of the malicious application, making it particularly effective in social engineering scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve updating to macOS 10.10.5 or later versions where Apple has implemented proper privilege management and locking mechanisms within the Install Framework. System administrators should also implement application whitelisting policies to prevent installation of untrusted applications that could exploit this vulnerability. Additional protective measures include monitoring for unusual installation activities and ensuring that only authorized users have the ability to install software on affected systems. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper privilege management and locking mechanisms in system security, particularly in components that handle sensitive installation operations. Organizations should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify systems running affected versions of macOS and prioritize remediation efforts accordingly.