CVE-2019-7249 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Keybase before version 2.12.6 on macOS had a vulnerability in the move RPC to the Helper feature, leading to time-to-check-time-to-use bugs and unauthorized manipulation of installations.

Understanding CVE-2019-7249

What is CVE-2019-7249?

Keybase on macOS had a vulnerability that allowed non-root users to tamper with other users' installations due to issues in the move RPC to the Helper feature.

The Impact of CVE-2019-7249

This vulnerability could result in unauthorized manipulation of software installations on the system by users without root access.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-7249

Vulnerability Description

Before version 2.12.6 on macOS, Keybase had a vulnerability in the move RPC to the Helper feature, enabling time-to-check-time-to-use bugs and unauthorized manipulation of installations.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions affected: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allowed non-root users to manipulate the installations of other users on the system, exploiting the move RPC to the Helper feature.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Keybase to version 2.12.6 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor system installations for any unauthorized changes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest versions to address known vulnerabilities.
Implement least privilege access to limit unauthorized actions.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Keybase to ensure the security of the system.