CVE-2015-5772 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in SceneKit in Apple OS X before 10.10.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted Collada file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2015-5772 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw within Apple's SceneKit framework, affecting macOS versions prior to 10.10.5. This vulnerability resides in the processing logic for Collada file formats, which are widely used for 3D graphics data exchange in the gaming and multimedia industries. The flaw specifically manifests when SceneKit attempts to parse maliciously crafted Collada files, creating conditions where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations in the heap memory space. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, which is classified as a severe memory corruption issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates in a remote attack scenario, meaning attackers can exploit it without requiring physical access to the target system, making it a significant threat vector for widespread exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs during the parsing phase of Collada files, where SceneKit's memory allocation routines fail to properly validate the size and structure of incoming data. When a malicious Collada file is processed, the framework allocates memory based on assumptions about the file's structure that are violated by crafted input. The heap-based nature of the overflow means that memory corruption occurs within the program's dynamic memory allocation pool, potentially overwriting function pointers, return addresses, or other critical program data structures. This memory corruption can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow, allowing attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the attack pattern described in ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through scripting and T1068 for privilege escalation, as the overflow can be used to gain elevated system privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-5772 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can be exploited through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or malicious websites that serve compromised Collada files. Applications that utilize SceneKit for 3D content rendering, including gaming applications, design software, and multimedia presentation tools, become potential targets for exploitation. The vulnerability affects a broad range of macOS users since SceneKit is integrated into the standard operating system framework, making it accessible to attackers who can craft malicious files and distribute them through conventional attack channels. Security researchers have noted that the exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise, as attackers can leverage the heap overflow to escalate privileges and establish persistent access to affected systems. The widespread adoption of Collada format in 3D graphics workflows across various industries makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous, as it can be triggered by legitimate applications that process 3D content, creating a significant risk for organizations relying on macOS environments.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including applying the official macOS security updates from Apple that address this vulnerability through proper input validation and memory management improvements. System administrators should also consider implementing network-based protections such as content filtering and sandboxing mechanisms to prevent the processing of untrusted Collada files. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and secure coding practices, particularly in frameworks that handle external data formats, aligning with security guidelines from the OWASP Top Ten and CERT/CC secure coding standards. Additionally, organizations should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify applications that may be using SceneKit or similar frameworks, ensuring that all systems are updated to prevent exploitation. Regular monitoring for exploitation attempts and implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious file processing activities will provide additional layers of defense against this and similar memory corruption vulnerabilities.