CVE-2024-34331 in Parallels
Summary
by MITRE • 09/23/2024
A lack of code signature verification in Parallels Desktop for Mac v19.3.0 and below allows attackers to escalate privileges via a crafted macOS installer, because Parallels Service is setuid root.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-34331 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in Parallels Desktop for Mac versions 19.3.0 and earlier. This issue stems from insufficient code signature verification mechanisms within the virtualization software, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability specifically targets the Parallels Service component which operates with root privileges due to its setuid bit being enabled, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to exploit the system's trust model.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the trust relationship between the Parallels Service and the macOS installer process. When a crafted installer is executed, the system fails to properly validate the code signatures of the components being installed, allowing malicious code to be loaded and executed with root privileges. This flaw leverages the inherent security weakness where the setuid root bit on Parallels Service creates an attack surface that can be manipulated by attackers who craft malicious installers designed to bypass the normal code verification procedures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected macOS system. Once successfully exploited, adversaries can modify system files, install persistent backdoors, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within a network. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires no user interaction beyond executing a malicious installer, making it an ideal candidate for automated exploitation campaigns.
Security professionals should recognize this issue as a classic example of inadequate input validation and code integrity checks, which aligns with CWE-276 - Incorrect Default Permissions and CWE-426 - Untrusted Search Path or Working Directory. The attack pattern follows the privilege escalation techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1068 - Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, specifically targeting the use of setuid binaries to gain elevated system access. Organizations should immediately update to Parallels Desktop version 19.3.1 or later, which includes proper code signature verification mechanisms, and implement additional monitoring for suspicious installer activity and unauthorized system modifications.
The remediation strategy must include both immediate patching and ongoing security monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. System administrators should verify that all Parallels Desktop installations have been updated and that no older versions remain in use. Additionally, security teams should implement process monitoring to detect unusual activity involving setuid binaries and installer processes, as well as maintain detailed audit logs of system modifications that could indicate successful exploitation of this vulnerability.