CVE-2011-1462 in Safari
Summary
by MITRE
WebKit, as used in Apple Safari before 5.0.6, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption and application crash) via a crafted web site, a different vulnerability than other WebKit CVEs listed in APPLE-SA-2011-07-20-1.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1462 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within WebKit engine components that were integral to Apple Safari browser versions prior to 5.0.6. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of heap-based buffer overflows and memory corruption issues that have historically plagued web browser engines. The flaw specifically manifests when processing maliciously crafted web content, creating a dangerous attack surface that could be exploited by remote threat actors. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-125, which covers out-of-bounds read vulnerabilities. Security researchers have documented similar patterns in WebKit-based browsers where improper memory management during web page rendering creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through carefully constructed web pages that trigger specific memory corruption patterns within the WebKit rendering engine. Attackers can craft malicious websites that, when loaded in vulnerable Safari versions, cause the browser to allocate memory improperly or access memory regions beyond their intended boundaries. This memory corruption leads to unpredictable behavior where the application crashes or potentially allows remote code execution. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK framework's T1203 technique for exploitation for execution, where attackers leverage software vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized code execution capabilities. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple application crashes to potentially enabling full system compromise when combined with other exploitation techniques or when the browser is running with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-1462 was significant for users of affected Safari versions, as it created a persistent security risk that could be exploited through routine web browsing activities. Users visiting compromised websites or clicking on malicious links could unknowingly trigger the vulnerability without any additional user interaction beyond normal web navigation. This makes the exploit particularly dangerous as it requires no social engineering or user deception beyond the initial website visit. The vulnerability's presence in the widely used Safari browser meant that a large user base was potentially exposed to remote code execution attacks. Organizations and individuals running affected versions faced increased risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments where Safari was the default browser.
The remediation for this vulnerability required immediate patching of Safari browser components through Apple's security updates. Apple addressed the issue in Safari 5.0.6 release, which included fixes to WebKit's memory management routines and input validation mechanisms. Security professionals recommended immediate deployment of the patch as a critical security measure, as the vulnerability could be exploited without user interaction. Organizations should have implemented comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all affected systems received the update promptly. Additional mitigations included browser hardening measures such as sandboxing configurations and network-based protections, though these were secondary to the primary patching requirement. The vulnerability highlighted the importance of regular security updates and the need for organizations to maintain current browser versions to protect against known exploits. This case study reinforced the principles outlined in security frameworks like NIST SP 800-128, which emphasizes the critical nature of timely vulnerability remediation and the potential consequences of delayed patch deployment.