CVE-2023-32364 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 07/27/2023
A logic issue was addressed with improved restrictions. This issue is fixed in macOS Ventura 13.5. A sandboxed process may be able to circumvent sandbox restrictions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2023
This vulnerability represents a sandbox escape condition that undermines the fundamental security model of macOS Ventura 13.5. The issue stems from a logic flaw in the sandboxing implementation that allows processes running within restricted environments to potentially access resources and capabilities beyond their designated permissions. The vulnerability affects the core security mechanism that isolates applications and system processes to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data and system functions. Sandboxing serves as a critical defense-in-depth layer that limits what applications can do, even if they are compromised or exploited by malicious actors.
The technical flaw manifests as insufficient validation or enforcement of sandbox boundaries, creating potential pathways for privilege escalation or information disclosure. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of improper restriction of operations within a restricted environment, which aligns with CWE-250. The issue specifically impacts the sandboxing subsystem that governs how applications interact with system resources, file systems, and network communications. When a sandboxed process can circumvent these restrictions, it essentially defeats the purpose of application isolation and creates opportunities for attackers to gain unauthorized access to protected system components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, and further exploitation opportunities. An attacker who successfully exploits this sandbox escape could access sensitive user data, system configuration files, or other applications running in different sandboxed contexts. This vulnerability particularly affects applications that rely on sandboxing for security, including web browsers, email clients, and other software that processes untrusted content. The implications are significant as it could allow attackers to bypass security controls that are designed to protect against various attack vectors including zero-day exploits and targeted malware.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate system updates to macOS Ventura 13.5 where the fix has been implemented. Organizations should also consider implementing additional monitoring for unusual process behavior and unauthorized access attempts. The fix addresses the underlying logic issue by strengthening the validation mechanisms that enforce sandbox restrictions. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any applications or processes that might be vulnerable to this type of sandbox escape. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of continuous security auditing and the need for robust sandboxing implementations that can withstand sophisticated attack techniques. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1548.002 which covers bypassing user access control mechanisms, and represents a critical security update that should be prioritized across all affected systems.