CVE-2011-3245 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
The Keyboards component in Apple iOS before 5 displays the final character of an entered password during a subsequent use of a keyboard, which allows physically proximate attackers to obtain sensitive information by reading this character.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2011-3245 represents a critical security flaw in Apple iOS versions prior to 5.0 where the keyboard component fails to properly obscure password input characters during subsequent keyboard sessions. This issue specifically affects the password entry functionality within the operating system's keyboard component, creating a situation where attackers with physical proximity to the device can observe the final character of passwords being entered. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of keyboard state persistence between sessions, particularly when the system maintains certain input history or display states that should remain confidential.
The technical implementation flaw occurs within the iOS keyboard subsystem where the component does not adequately clear or obscure sensitive input data when transitioning between different keyboard sessions or when reusing keyboard state information. This behavior violates fundamental security principles related to input confidentiality and information disclosure. The vulnerability operates under the principle of side-channel information leakage, where attackers can exploit the physical proximity to observe the final character of passwords being entered. This type of vulnerability is classified as a weakness in input handling and information exposure, aligning with CWE-200 (Information Exposure) and CWE-312 (Sensitive Information Exposure).
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for users of affected iOS versions who may be subject to shoulder surfing attacks or physical surveillance. The attack vector requires only physical proximity to the device, making it particularly dangerous in public environments where users may be unaware of their surroundings. An attacker can repeatedly observe password entries to gather sufficient information for account compromise, especially when combined with other social engineering techniques. The vulnerability affects all password entry scenarios within iOS applications and system functions, creating a broad attack surface that impacts user authentication security across the entire platform. This weakness can be categorized under the ATT&CK framework as T1555.004 (Credentials from Password Stores) and T1566.001 (Phishing via Social Engineering) when combined with physical proximity attacks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate system updates to iOS 5.0 or later versions where Apple has implemented proper keyboard state management and input obscuration. Users should also employ additional security measures such as using passphrases instead of simple passwords, enabling biometric authentication where available, and being vigilant about physical security in public spaces. Organizations should conduct security awareness training to educate users about the risks of shoulder surfing and physical proximity attacks. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input handling and state management in mobile operating systems, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security testing of user interface components. System administrators should ensure all iOS devices are updated to the latest versions to prevent exploitation of this and similar vulnerabilities. The remediation process involves not only updating the operating system but also reviewing keyboard configuration settings and implementing additional security controls to protect against similar information disclosure threats.