CVE-2017-15357 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-15357, a vulnerability in Arq for Mac prior to 5.9.7 allowing local users to gain root privileges through a symlink attack on the auto-updater binary. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures.
Arq for Mac version prior to 5.9.7 is vulnerable to a local root privilege escalation attack through a symlink exploit in the auto-updater.
Understanding CVE-2017-15357
What is CVE-2017-15357?
The vulnerability in the setpermissions function of Arq for Mac allows local users to gain root privileges by exploiting a symlink attack targeting the updater binary.
The Impact of CVE-2017-15357
The vulnerability can be exploited by local users to escalate their privileges to root level, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control of the affected system.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-15357
Vulnerability Description
The setpermissions function in the auto-updater of Arq for Mac version prior to 5.9.7 can be abused through a symlink attack on the updater binary, enabling local users to obtain root privileges.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Arq for Mac
- Versions Affected: Prior to 5.9.7
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited through a symlink attack on the updater binary, allowing local users to gain root privileges on the system.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Arq for Mac to version 5.9.7 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Avoid running the application with elevated privileges unnecessarily.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and apply security updates for all software and applications.
- Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access and permissions.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all software, including Arq for Mac, is regularly updated with the latest security patches to address known vulnerabilities.