CVE-2023-32375 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 06/23/2023
An out-of-bounds read was addressed with improved input validation. This issue is fixed in macOS Monterey 12.6.6, macOS Ventura 13.4. Processing a 3D model may result in disclosure of process memory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-32375 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw within Apple's macOS operating system that specifically affects processing of 3D models. This issue stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms when handling 3D model data structures, creating a pathway for malicious actors to potentially access sensitive process memory contents. The vulnerability exists in the rendering and processing components responsible for handling three-dimensional graphical assets, making it particularly concerning for users who frequently work with 3D content or applications that utilize 3D model processing capabilities.
The technical nature of this flaw aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read vulnerabilities where programs access memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries. The vulnerability manifests when the system processes 3D model files, particularly those with malformed or unexpected data structures that trigger the out-of-bounds memory access. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when input validation is inadequate and does not properly verify array indices or buffer limits before accessing memory locations. The flaw enables attackers to potentially read adjacent memory regions that may contain sensitive information such as cryptographic keys, user credentials, or other confidential data stored within the process memory space.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to system security and data integrity, especially in environments where 3D content is frequently processed or where users may unknowingly encounter malicious 3D model files. The memory disclosure aspect of this vulnerability provides attackers with potential access to sensitive information that could be leveraged for further exploitation attempts. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the leaked memory contents could contain pointers, stack data, or other elements that might aid in crafting more sophisticated attacks. This vulnerability particularly affects users running macOS Monterey 12.6.5 and earlier versions or macOS Ventura 13.4 and earlier versions, making these system configurations prime targets for exploitation attempts.
The remediation for CVE-2023-32375 has been implemented through updates to macOS Monterey 12.6.6 and macOS Ventura 13.4, which include enhanced input validation mechanisms specifically designed to prevent out-of-bounds memory access during 3D model processing. These updates address the root cause by implementing stricter bounds checking and validation procedures that ensure all 3D model data is properly verified before any processing occurs. Organizations should prioritize deployment of these security updates across all affected systems to mitigate the risk of exploitation. The fix demonstrates the importance of robust input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security principles and aligns with the defensive programming practices recommended in the SANS Institute's secure coding guidelines.
Security practitioners should consider this vulnerability within the broader context of attack vectors that leverage memory corruption flaws, potentially connecting it to techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 and T1555.003 sub-techniques. The vulnerability's potential for information disclosure makes it particularly relevant for organizations implementing comprehensive security monitoring strategies that include memory analysis and process monitoring capabilities. Regular system updates and patch management procedures become critical in defending against this type of vulnerability, as the out-of-bounds read behavior can be exploited to gather intelligence about system configurations and potentially identify additional weaknesses in the target environment. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of validating all external input data, particularly in multimedia processing components where complex data structures are handled.