CVE-2019-8716 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 10/28/2020
A memory corruption issue was addressed with improved memory handling. This issue is fixed in macOS Catalina 10.15.1, Security Update 2019-001, and Security Update 2019-006. An application may be able to execute arbitrary code with system privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/31/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-8716 represents a critical memory corruption flaw that existed within Apple's macOS operating system, specifically affecting versions prior to the release of macOS Catalina 10.15.1 and the corresponding security updates 2019-001 and 2019-006. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of memory safety issues that can lead to severe security consequences when exploited by malicious actors. The flaw was addressed through enhanced memory handling mechanisms that prevent unauthorized code execution with elevated system privileges.
The technical nature of this memory corruption vulnerability stems from inadequate memory management practices within the macOS kernel or system frameworks. Memory corruption issues typically occur when applications or system processes manipulate memory in ways that violate established boundaries, potentially leading to buffer overflows, use-after-free conditions, or other memory-related anomalies. This particular flaw allowed a malicious application to leverage memory corruption techniques to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code with system-level access. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-122, which addresses improper restriction of operations within a memory buffer, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-8716 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it creates a pathway for attackers to gain complete control over affected systems. When an application can execute arbitrary code with system privileges, it essentially provides an attacker with root-level access to the machine, enabling them to install malware, modify system files, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. This vulnerability represents a significant threat to enterprise environments where macOS devices may be targeted by sophisticated attack campaigns, as it undermines the fundamental security model of the operating system.
Security researchers and threat actors alike have identified this vulnerability as particularly dangerous due to its potential for privilege escalation and code execution. The remediation approach implemented by Apple focused on strengthening memory handling routines, which aligns with defensive programming principles and helps prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. Organizations should prioritize applying the security updates 2019-001 and 2019-006, as these patches address the underlying memory corruption mechanisms that could be exploited through techniques consistent with the attack patterns described in the attack framework. The vulnerability's remediation demonstrates the importance of regular security updates and proactive vulnerability management in maintaining system integrity.