CVE-2015-5888 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
The Install Framework Legacy component in Apple OS X before 10.11 allows local users to obtain root privileges via vectors involving a privileged executable file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-5888 resides within Apple's Install Framework Legacy component, a critical system element responsible for managing software installation processes on macOS operating systems. This flaw affects versions prior to macOS 10.11, creating a significant security risk that could be exploited by local attackers to escalate their privileges to the root level. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of privileged executable files within the installation framework, allowing malicious actors to manipulate system components and gain unauthorized administrative access.
Technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves leveraging the legacy Install Framework's insufficient privilege checking mechanisms when processing installation packages. The flaw typically manifests when the system attempts to execute privileged installer components that should only be accessible to the root user. Attackers can manipulate the installation process by placing malicious files in specific locations or by modifying existing privileged executables, thereby bypassing normal access controls that should prevent unauthorized modification of system-critical components. This represents a classic privilege escalation vulnerability where the system fails to properly validate the integrity and authenticity of executable files during the installation process.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-5888 extends beyond simple local privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with the foundation for more sophisticated attacks within the macOS environment. Once escalated to root privileges, an attacker gains complete control over the system, enabling them to modify any file, install malicious software, disable security mechanisms, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects the fundamental installation security model of macOS, undermining the trust model that ensures only authorized components can execute with elevated privileges. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where macOS systems may be targeted by sophisticated adversaries seeking to establish long-term access to sensitive networks.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which describes improper privilege management, and corresponds to techniques documented in the ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation tactics. The attack vector specifically maps to T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through the exploitation of system vulnerabilities, and T1548, which encompasses abuse of system permissions. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the official macOS 10.11 update or later versions that address this vulnerability, conducting thorough security audits to identify potential exploitation attempts, and monitoring system logs for unusual installation activities or unauthorized privilege escalation events. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing additional security controls such as file integrity monitoring, restricted user account permissions, and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.