Malware exploits LaunchD Local Format String Vulnerability
vnunet.com, 01 Jul 2006
Security experts have identified malware which exploits a flaw in the Mac OS X operating system.
Apple released a patch to fix the flaw just a few days ago. However, exploit code for the vulnerability has been posted on security websites, prompting the creation of the malware.
Antivirus firm Symantec said that OSX.Exploit.Launchd is a Trojan that exploits the Apple Mac OS X LaunchD Local Format String Vulnerability. It can provide root access on the Mac OS X version 10.4.6 or earlier.
The virus does nothing other than open a shell with full root privileges which is controllable by the attacker. A successful attack may crash the application.
Symantec said that the actual threat level, damage potential and distribution rate are low all round.
Symantec has published instructions for the removal of OSX.Exploit.Launchd on its website.
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