CVE-2023-40397 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 09/07/2023
The issue was addressed with improved checks. This issue is fixed in macOS Ventura 13.5. A remote attacker may be able to cause arbitrary javascript code execution.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/30/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical remote code execution flaw in macOS Ventura 13.5 that allows attackers to execute arbitrary javascript code remotely. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the affected system components, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute unauthorized javascript payloads. The vulnerability affects the operating system's handling of javascript execution contexts, potentially enabling attackers to bypass security boundaries and gain unauthorized access to system resources. The fix implemented in macOS Ventura 13.5 addresses the root cause through enhanced validation checks that properly sanitize input before javascript execution occurs. This remediation aligns with security best practices outlined in the CWE (Common Weakness Enumeration) framework, specifically addressing weaknesses related to improper input validation and code injection vulnerabilities. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple script execution as it could potentially enable attackers to escalate privileges, access sensitive data, or establish persistent access to affected systems. Organizations deploying macOS Ventura 13.5 should verify that all affected systems have been properly updated to ensure the mitigation is effective. The fix demonstrates the importance of robust input validation and sandboxing mechanisms in preventing remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability type falls under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007 for JavaScript, highlighting the need for comprehensive protection against scripting language-based attacks. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that attackers do not require physical access to systems and can exploit the flaw from external networks, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where network boundaries may be less strictly controlled.
The technical implementation of the fix involves strengthening the javascript engine's validation routines to properly detect and reject malicious input patterns before execution. This includes enhanced parsing of javascript code, stricter context validation, and improved sandboxing mechanisms that isolate javascript execution from core system functions. The remediation addresses a fundamental security gap in how the operating system processes untrusted javascript content, which could have been exploited through various attack vectors including web browsers, email clients, or system utilities that execute javascript code. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw places it in the high-risk category of security issues that can lead to complete system compromise. Security teams should monitor for any attempts to exploit this vulnerability prior to patching, as the window between vulnerability disclosure and exploitation can be significant. The fix ensures that all javascript execution contexts are properly validated against known malicious patterns and that input parameters are sanitized before being processed by the javascript engine. This represents a critical improvement in the operating system's defense-in-depth posture against sophisticated attack techniques. The remediation approach follows industry standards for secure coding practices and demonstrates the importance of regular security updates in maintaining system integrity. Organizations should prioritize deployment of macOS Ventura 13.5 across all affected systems to mitigate the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability's resolution also highlights the ongoing need for comprehensive security testing and validation of javascript execution environments in modern operating systems.