CVE-2018-4139

HIGH

macOS < 10.13.4 - Remote Code Execution in kext tools

Title source: llm
STIX 2.1

Exploitation Summary

EIP tracks 1 public exploit for CVE-2018-4139. PoCs published by Google Security Research.

AI-analyzed exploit summary The code describes a MIG-based vulnerability in macOS's kextd (CVE-2018-4139) where an invalid client port passed by a root user causes a UREF drop, leading to potential privilege escalation. The writeup references a similar exploit (mach_portal) and outlines how this could be exploited to gain kernel code execution.

Description

An issue was discovered in certain Apple products. macOS before 10.13.4 is affected. The issue involves the "kext tools" component. It allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in a privileged context or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted app.

Exploits (1)

exploitdb WRITEUP VERIFIED
by Google Security Research · textdosmacos
https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/44561

The code describes a MIG-based vulnerability in macOS's kextd (CVE-2018-4139) where an invalid client port passed by a root user causes a UREF drop, leading to potential privilege escalation. The writeup references a similar exploit (mach_portal) and outlines how this could be exploited to gain kernel code execution.

Classification
Writeup 90%
Attack Type
Lpe
Complexity
Complex
Reliability
Theoretical
Target: macOS 10.13.2 (kextd)
Auth required
Prerequisites: Root access (UID 0) · Debugger attached to kextd · Knowledge of MIG and mach port manipulation
devstral-2 · analyzed Feb 16, 2026 Full analysis →

References (4)

Core 4
Core References
Vendor Advisory x_refsource_confirm
https://support.apple.com/HT208692
Third Party Advisory, VDB Entry vdb-entry x_refsource_bid
http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/103582
Exploit, Third Party Advisory, VDB Entry exploit x_refsource_exploit-db
https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/44561/
Third Party Advisory, VDB Entry vdb-entry x_refsource_sectrack
http://www.securitytracker.com/id/1040608

Scores

CVSS v3 7.8
EPSS 0.0444
EPSS Percentile 90.1%
Attack Vector LOCAL
CVSS:3.0/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

Details

CWE
CWE-119
Status published
Products (1)
apple/mac_os_x < 10.13.4
Published Apr 03, 2018
Tracked Since Feb 18, 2026