CVE-2010-1754 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
Passcode Lock in Apple iOS before 4 on the iPhone and iPod touch does not properly handle alert-based unlocks in conjunction with subsequent Remote Lock operations through MobileMe, which allows physically proximate attackers to bypass intended passcode requirements via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/16/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2010-1754 represents a critical security flaw in Apple iOS versions prior to 4.0, specifically affecting iPhone and iPod touch devices. This issue stems from the improper handling of passcode lock mechanisms when alert-based unlock operations interact with Remote Lock functionality through MobileMe services. The vulnerability creates a scenario where attackers can bypass the intended authentication requirements through a specific sequence of operations that exploit gaps in the device's security model. The flaw demonstrates a fundamental weakness in how the operating system manages concurrent security states and transitions between different unlock mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a race condition or state management error within the iOS security framework where alert-based unlock operations fail to properly terminate or validate the passcode lock state before remote lock operations can be executed. This creates a window where an attacker with physical proximity to the device can manipulate the unlock sequence to effectively disable the passcode protection. The unspecified vectors mentioned in the description suggest that the attack could potentially occur through various methods including but not limited to timing attacks, specific button press sequences, or manipulation of the alert system. The vulnerability specifically targets the interaction between local authentication mechanisms and remote management capabilities, creating an unintended security bypass.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability allows physically proximate attackers to gain unauthorized access to devices without proper authentication, potentially exposing sensitive user data including personal information, communications, financial data, and application credentials. The risk is particularly elevated because the attack requires only physical proximity rather than sophisticated technical skills or network access. The vulnerability affects all iOS devices running versions before 4.0, which were widely deployed in enterprise and consumer environments, potentially creating widespread exposure. Organizations relying on iOS devices for sensitive operations face significant risk of data breaches and unauthorized access to protected information.
The mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve updating to iOS version 4.0 or later, which contains the necessary security patches to address the passcode lock handling issue. System administrators should implement comprehensive device management policies including mandatory OS updates, regular security assessments, and monitoring for unauthorized device access attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 Access Control Issues and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1547.001 Account Manipulation. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as device encryption, remote wipe capabilities, and enhanced monitoring of device access patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts. The incident highlights the importance of proper state management in security-critical systems and the need for comprehensive testing of interaction between different security mechanisms.