CVE-2023-32382 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 Ventura 13.4, macOS Big Sur 11.7.7, macOS Monterey 12.6.6. Processing a 3D model may result in disclosure of process memory
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2026
This vulnerability represents a classic out-of-bounds read flaw that was successfully addressed through enhanced input validation mechanisms within Apple's operating system frameworks. The issue specifically manifests when processing three-dimensional model files, where improper bounds checking allows maliciously crafted 3D data to trigger memory access violations that can lead to information disclosure. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of macOS including Ventura 13.4, Big Sur 11.7.7, and Monterey 12.6.6, indicating a widespread impact across the operating system's multimedia processing capabilities.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs within the 3D model parsing libraries where array indices are not properly validated against buffer boundaries during model loading operations. When a malformed 3D file is processed, the application attempts to read memory locations beyond the allocated buffer space, potentially exposing sensitive process memory contents including cryptographic keys, user data, or system credentials. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-129 which specifically addresses insufficient validation of length of inputs, and represents a critical security concern for any system handling untrusted 3D content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure as it creates potential attack vectors for privilege escalation and data exfiltration scenarios. An attacker could craft malicious 3D models designed to trigger the out-of-bounds read condition, potentially allowing them to extract sensitive information from running processes without requiring elevated privileges. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as attackers might leverage such memory disclosure capabilities to further compromise affected systems through subsequent exploitation techniques.
The fix implemented by Apple involved strengthening input validation routines specifically within the 3D model processing pipelines, ensuring that all array access operations are properly bounds-checked before memory dereferencing occurs. This remediation addresses the root cause by implementing defensive programming practices that prevent unauthorized memory access patterns. Organizations should prioritize patching affected systems to mitigate potential exploitation risks, particularly in environments where untrusted 3D content may be processed or where users have the capability to open arbitrary 3D model files. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of input validation in multimedia processing libraries and demonstrates how seemingly benign file format parsing can become a critical security concern when proper bounds checking is absent from the implementation.