CVE-2018-4097 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in certain Apple products. macOS before 10.13.3 is affected. The issue involves the "Kernel" component. It allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in a privileged context via a crafted app.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-4097 represents a critical kernel-level security flaw affecting macOS versions prior to 10.13.3. This issue resides within the kernel component of Apple's operating system, which serves as the core foundation responsible for system-level operations and resource management. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the kernel's code execution pathways, creating a potential exploitation vector that could allow malicious actors to gain elevated privileges. The flaw specifically manifests when the system processes crafted applications that contain malicious code designed to exploit the kernel's handling of certain data structures or execution contexts.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-119, which addresses improper access to memory locations, and represents a privilege escalation flaw that enables attackers to execute arbitrary code within the kernel context. This means that an attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can operate with the highest system privileges, effectively bypassing all standard security controls and access restrictions. The attack vector requires the victim to install and run a specially crafted application, which then triggers the kernel-level exploit. This approach follows the ATT&CK technique T1068, which describes the use of local privilege escalation techniques to gain administrative access to systems. The vulnerability's exploitation process typically involves manipulating kernel data structures or function pointers in a way that causes the system to execute malicious code with root-level privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-4097 extends beyond simple code execution, as it fundamentally compromises the security model of macOS systems. Once exploited, attackers can gain complete control over affected systems, potentially leading to data exfiltration, persistent backdoor installation, or further network reconnaissance activities. The vulnerability affects a wide range of Apple devices including Mac computers, tablets, and other macOS-based systems, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where multiple devices may be simultaneously vulnerable. Organizations running macOS versions before 10.13.3 face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential system compromise, as the exploit requires minimal user interaction beyond the installation of the malicious application. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where users may inadvertently download and execute compromised software from untrusted sources.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate deployment of macOS 10.13.3 or later updates, which contain patches specifically designed to address the kernel-level vulnerability. System administrators should prioritize patch management procedures to ensure all affected devices receive the necessary security updates. Additional protective measures include implementing application whitelisting policies, monitoring for suspicious application installations, and maintaining comprehensive system monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider deploying endpoint protection solutions that can detect and prevent the execution of malicious applications before they can exploit the kernel vulnerability. The vulnerability's classification as a privilege escalation issue means that traditional security measures such as user access controls may not provide sufficient protection, emphasizing the critical need for timely patch deployment and comprehensive security monitoring.