Local Privilege Escalation in Software Component

Executive Summary

This is a local privilege escalation vulnerability in ESET's macOS security applications. It allows an unprivileged local user to execute arbitrary code with root permissions by exploiting a vulnerable helper binary in the ESET Uninstaller application. The flaw involves parsing directory names containing shell metacharacters, enabling command injection.

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Detection Guidance

Check installed ESET macOS applications for versions below the fixed releases (Endpoint Security 9.1.3100.0+, 9.0.6400.0+, 8.1.300.0+ or Cyber Security 9.0.6300.0+). Inspect the ESET Uninstaller application bundle for the vulnerable helper binary.

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Impact Analysis

If exploited, this vulnerability could lead to full system compromise. An attacker could gain complete control over the affected system by executing arbitrary code with elevated privileges. However, no active exploits in the wild have been detected as of now.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized root access on affected systems, potentially compromising sensitive data. For GDPR, this may result in unauthorized data access or processing, violating confidentiality principles. Under HIPAA, it could expose protected health information to unauthorized users, leading to compliance breaches.

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Mitigation Strategies

Upgrade ESET Endpoint Security for macOS to version 9.1.3100.0 or later, 9.0.6400.0 or later, or 8.1.300.0 or later. For ESET Cyber Security, upgrade to version 9.0.6300.0 or later. If using legacy versions, update to a supported fixed release.

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