CVE-2016-4641 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Login Window in Apple OS X before 10.11.6 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in a privileged context or obtain sensitive user information via a crafted app that leverages a "type confusion."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-4641 represents a critical type confusion flaw within the login window component of Apple macOS operating systems prior to version 10.11.6. This issue fundamentally compromises the security architecture of the system by allowing unprivileged attackers to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code within a privileged context. The vulnerability resides in the handling of data types during the authentication process, where the system fails to properly validate or sanitize input parameters that are subsequently used in memory operations.
Type confusion vulnerabilities fall under the CWE-476 category and are classified as a serious weakness in software design that occurs when a program incorrectly handles data types, leading to unexpected behavior during memory operations. The login window component in question processes user input and application data in ways that do not adequately distinguish between different data types, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute malicious code with elevated privileges. This flaw specifically affects the system's ability to properly handle crafted applications that exploit the type confusion to gain unauthorized access to system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with the capability to access sensitive user information and execute arbitrary code in a privileged context. An attacker could potentially craft a malicious application that, when launched through the login window, would trigger the type confusion and allow for complete system compromise. This vulnerability enables attackers to bypass traditional security controls and access user credentials, personal files, and system configuration data. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it targets the very component responsible for user authentication, making it an ideal vector for initial system access and subsequent lateral movement within a network environment.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the ATT&CK framework, specifically under the privilege escalation and defense evasion tactics. The vulnerability allows for initial access through a crafted application that leverages the login window as an attack surface, potentially enabling further exploitation through techniques such as process injection or memory manipulation. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including prompt patching of affected systems to macOS 10.11.6 or later versions, along with enhanced monitoring of login window processes and application execution patterns. Additional defensive measures should include implementing application whitelisting policies, regular security assessments of system components, and maintaining up-to-date threat intelligence regarding similar vulnerabilities in the macOS ecosystem. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and type safety in security-critical system components, particularly those involved in authentication and privilege management processes.