CVE-2016-1769 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
QuickTime in Apple OS X before 10.11.4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted Photoshop file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1769 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Apple's QuickTime media framework affecting macOS versions prior to 10.11.4. This security weakness resides in how QuickTime processes Photoshop image files, specifically when handling malformed or crafted .psd files that contain maliciously constructed data structures. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and memory management practices within the image parsing routines, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code on affected systems. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they can be triggered through routine media processing activities, making them difficult to detect and prevent through traditional security measures.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specially formatted Photoshop files that, when opened by QuickTime, trigger memory corruption patterns leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The exploitation mechanism typically involves manipulating image headers, color channel data, or layer structures within the PSD format to overwrite memory locations controlled by the application. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution, as it enables remote code execution through legitimate application interfaces. The memory corruption occurs during the parsing phase when QuickTime attempts to interpret the malformed data structure, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite function pointers, return addresses, or other critical memory segments.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-1769 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass significant system compromise potential and denial of service capabilities. Organizations running affected macOS versions face risks of unauthorized access, data exfiltration, and persistent system control when attackers successfully exploit this vulnerability. The flaw particularly affects environments where users frequently open multimedia content from untrusted sources, including email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing platforms. System administrators must consider the broad attack surface this vulnerability creates, as QuickTime is integrated into various macOS applications and services, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges or establish persistence mechanisms. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require physical access to target systems, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where users may inadvertently open malicious files.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-1769 primarily focus on immediate system updates and operational security measures. The most effective defense involves applying Apple's official security patches and updating to macOS 10.11.4 or later versions where the vulnerability has been addressed. System administrators should implement network-based filtering to block potentially malicious PSD files, particularly those received through email or web interfaces. Additional protective measures include disabling QuickTime's automatic image preview functionality for untrusted content, implementing sandboxing controls, and monitoring for unusual memory allocation patterns or process behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider deploying endpoint detection and response solutions that can identify anomalous QuickTime behavior or memory corruption patterns. Regular security assessments and user awareness training regarding safe file handling practices remain essential components of a comprehensive defense strategy, as social engineering remains a common initial vector for delivering malicious PSD files to target systems.