CVE-2021-1839 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2021-1839 article provides insights into a vulnerability in macOS that allows a local attacker to elevate their privileges, affecting versions prior to macOS Big Sur 11.3 and Security Update 2021-003 Mojave. The issue has been resolved through improved permissions logic.

Understanding CVE-2021-1839

CVE-2021-1839 is a vulnerability in macOS that enables a local attacker to escalate their privileges, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information or system control.

What is CVE-2021-1839?

The vulnerability in macOS, identified as CVE-2021-1839, allows a local attacker to raise their privileges by exploiting certain permissions logic. This issue affects macOS versions before 11.3 and Security Update 2021-003 Mojave.

The Impact of CVE-2021-1839

The impact of CVE-2021-1839 includes the potential for a local attacker to gain elevated privileges on the system, which could be exploited for malicious purposes, compromising the confidentiality and integrity of data on the affected device.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-1839

CVE-2021-1839 involves a flaw in the permissions logic of macOS versions prior to 11.3 and Security Update 2021-003 Mojave. This vulnerability can be leveraged by a local attacker to escalate their privileges on the affected device.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from inadequate permissions handling, allowing a local attacker to manipulate permissions and gain elevated privileges, posing a significant security risk to the impacted macOS systems.

Affected Systems and Versions

Systems running macOS versions earlier than Big Sur 11.3 and Security Update 2021-003 Mojave are vulnerable to CVE-2021-1839. Users with these versions need to be cautious of potential privilege escalation attacks.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2021-1839, a local attacker would take advantage of the flawed permissions logic in macOS, leveraging it to elevate their privileges and potentially execute unauthorized commands or access sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

It's crucial for users to take immediate steps and adopt long-term security practices to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-1839.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update their macOS systems to the latest versions, specifically Big Sur 11.3 and Security Update 2021-003 Mojave, to address the vulnerability and prevent potential privilege escalation attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

In addition to applying patches, users should practice good security hygiene, such as limiting user privileges, employing robust authentication mechanisms, and staying informed about security updates.

Patching and Updates

Apple has released patches for CVE-2021-1839 in macOS Big Sur 11.3, Security Update 2021-002 Catalina, and Security Update 2021-003 Mojave. Users are advised to promptly install these updates to safeguard their systems against exploitation.