(Pwn2Own) Apple macOS speechsynthesisd Unsigned Dylib Loading Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on vulnerable 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 speechsynthesisd service. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a library prior to loading it. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges under the context of the current service.
Additional Details
Apple has issued an update to correct this vulnerability. More details can be found at:
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT207797
Disclosure Timeline
- 2017-03-15 - Vulnerability reported to vendor
- 2017-05-15 - Coordinated public release of advisory
Credit
Niklas Baumstark and Samuel Groß
