Vulnerability identifier: #VU28469

Vulnerability risk: Low

CVSSv3.1: 7 [CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H/E:P/RL:O/RC:C]

CVE-ID: CVE-2020-9817

CWE-ID: CWE-378

Exploitation vector: Local

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
macOS
Operating systems & Components / Operating system

Vendor: Apple Inc.

Description

The vulnerability allows a local user to escalate privileges on the system.

The vulnerability exists due to macOS Installer creates a world-readable temp directory that files are extracted into during installation within the PackageKit functionality. A local user can gain root privileges on the target system.

Mitigation
Install updates from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

macOS: 10.15.4 19E266

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External links
http://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT211170
http://tools.cisco.com/security/center/content/CiscoSecurityAdvisory/cisco-sa-anyconnect-mac-priv-esc-VqST2nrT
http://research.nccgroup.com/2020/07/02/technical-advisory-macos-installer-local-root-privilege-escalation-cve-2020-9817/

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Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

No. This vulnerability can be exploited locally. The attacker should have authentication credentials and successfully authenticate on the system.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability. However, proof of concept for this vulnerability is available.