CVE-2024-31492 in FortiClientMac
Summary
by MITRE • 04/10/2024
An external control of file name or path vulnerability [CWE-73] in FortiClientMac version 7.2.3 and below, version 7.0.10 and below installer may allow a local attacker to execute arbitrary code or commands via writing a malicious configuration file in /tmp before starting the installation process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/15/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in FortiClientMac software where an attacker can manipulate file paths through external control of file names or paths, classified as CWE-73. The issue specifically affects versions 7.2.3 and below of FortiClientMac and versions 7.0.10 and below of the installer, creating a persistent risk for macOS systems. The vulnerability arises from improper validation of file paths during the installation process, allowing malicious actors to place crafted configuration files in the /tmp directory before initiating installation. This represents a classic path traversal and privilege escalation vector where local attackers can leverage the installation routine to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted malicious configuration file placed in the /tmp directory prior to installation execution. When FortiClientMac processes the installation, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the file paths referenced in the configuration, enabling the attacker to inject malicious content that gets executed during the installation sequence. This flaw operates at the intersection of file system manipulation and installation process control, where the software assumes certain paths are safe without proper validation checks. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate security controls during installation phases, allowing attackers to bypass normal execution boundaries.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to organizations relying on FortiClientMac for network security protection. Local attackers with basic system access can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the installation process, potentially leading to full system compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to exploit and can be executed without user interaction beyond placing the malicious file. This creates a persistent threat vector where attackers can maintain access and escalate privileges through the installation process, potentially gaining access to sensitive network resources and data. The vulnerability undermines the integrity of the installation process and can be used to establish persistent backdoors or deploy additional malicious payloads.
Organizations should immediately update to patched versions of FortiClientMac and FortiClient installer to remediate this vulnerability. System administrators should implement strict file system monitoring around the /tmp directory and conduct regular security audits to detect unauthorized file placements. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit local system access where possible. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for unusual installation activity. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar path traversal vulnerabilities in other software components. The remediation process should include comprehensive system scanning for any potential exploitation attempts and monitoring for suspicious installation patterns that may indicate successful exploitation of this vulnerability.