CVE-2019-8694 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE
A memory corruption issue was addressed with improved memory handling. This issue is fixed in macOS Mojave 10.14.6. An application may be able to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/10/2020
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw that existed in Apple's macOS operating system, specifically affecting versions prior to 10.14.6. The issue stems from inadequate memory handling mechanisms within the kernel, creating a pathway for malicious applications to escalate their privileges and execute arbitrary code with the highest level of system access. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, indicating that the memory corruption occurs when the system attempts to access memory locations beyond their allocated boundaries. This type of flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the kernel level where all system operations are processed, making it a prime target for attackers seeking persistent system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability allows a locally running application to manipulate kernel memory structures through improper memory handling routines. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain kernel-level privileges, which provides them with complete control over the affected system. This privilege escalation capability aligns with techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation tactics, specifically targeting kernel exploits that bypass traditional user-mode security controls. The memory corruption manifests when the system fails to properly validate memory access requests, allowing malicious code to overwrite critical kernel data structures or execute arbitrary instructions within kernel space.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-8694 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of macOS by allowing unauthorized code execution with the highest system privileges. This capability enables attackers to install persistent backdoors, modify system files, monitor user activities, and potentially exfiltrate sensitive data without detection. The vulnerability affects all macOS versions prior to 10.14.6, making it a significant concern for organizations with outdated systems or delayed patch management processes. Security researchers have documented similar patterns in other kernel memory corruption vulnerabilities, where improper bounds checking and memory management routines create exploitable conditions that can be leveraged for complete system compromise.
Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems to address this vulnerability, as the window for exploitation remains open for unpatched installations. The fix implemented in macOS 10.14.6 includes enhanced memory handling routines that properly validate memory access operations and prevent out-of-bounds read conditions. System administrators should also implement additional monitoring for suspicious kernel activity and maintain comprehensive patch management processes to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future. The remediation process should include verification that all systems have been updated to version 10.14.6 or later, and that proper security configurations are maintained to minimize the attack surface for potential exploitation attempts.