CVE-2016-1794 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
AppleGraphicsControl in Apple OS X before 10.11.5 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in a privileged context or cause a denial of service (NULL pointer dereference) via a crafted app, a different vulnerability than CVE-2016-1793.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1794 resides within AppleGraphicsControl, a component of Apple's operating system that manages graphics processing and control functions. This flaw affects Apple OS X versions prior to 10.11.5, representing a critical security weakness that could be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized access or disrupt system operations. The vulnerability specifically manifests through a NULL pointer dereference condition that occurs when processing crafted applications, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered by seemingly benign software.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a flaw in how AppleGraphicsControl handles memory references during graphics processing operations. When a malicious application is executed, the graphics control component attempts to access a memory location that has not been properly initialized, resulting in a NULL pointer dereference. This type of error typically occurs when software attempts to access a memory address that contains a null value rather than a valid reference. The flaw is categorized under CWE-476, which specifically addresses NULL pointer dereference conditions that can lead to system instability or arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability operates at a privileged context level, meaning that successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute malicious code with elevated system permissions.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-1794 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass potential full system compromise. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code within the privileged context of the operating system, potentially enabling them to install malware, modify system files, or establish persistent backdoors. The NULL pointer dereference condition creates an unpredictable system state that could be exploited through various attack vectors, including social engineering campaigns that trick users into executing malicious applications. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management in system-level components and highlights how graphics processing frameworks can become attack surfaces when not properly secured against malformed input.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the broader ATT&CK framework, particularly under the execution and privilege escalation tactics. The vulnerability aligns with techniques involving legitimate program execution and process injection methods that could be used to bypass security controls. Organizations should prioritize patch management to ensure all affected systems receive the necessary updates to address this vulnerability. The remediation process involves upgrading to Apple OS X 10.11.5 or later versions where the graphics control component has been patched to properly validate memory references and prevent NULL pointer dereference conditions. Additional mitigations may include network segmentation, application whitelisting, and monitoring for suspicious graphics processing activities that could indicate exploitation attempts.