(Pwn2Own) Apple macOS /dev/fd Race Condition Local Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Apple macOS. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability.
The specific flaw exists within the /dev/fd filesystem. The issue results from the lack of proper locking when performing operations on a file. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of root.
Additional Details
Apple has issued an update to correct this vulnerability. More details can be found at:
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213758
Disclosure Timeline
- 2023-03-30 - Vulnerability reported to vendor
- 2023-06-08 - Coordinated public release of advisory
Credit
Eloi Benoist-Vanderbeken (@elvanderb) from Synacktiv (@Synacktiv)
