CVE-2011-3429 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
The Settings component in Apple iOS before 5 stores a cleartext parental-restrictions passcode in an unspecified file, which might allow physically proximate attackers to obtain sensitive information by reading this file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-3429 represents a critical security flaw in Apple iOS versions prior to 5.0 where the Settings component improperly handles parental restrictions passcode storage by maintaining it in cleartext within an unspecified file location. This design decision creates a significant information disclosure risk that directly violates fundamental security principles of data protection and access control. The flaw exists within the iOS operating system's core configuration management system, specifically affecting how the device stores sensitive authentication credentials for parental control features. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it exposes sensitive information through a simple file read operation that requires only physical proximity to the device, eliminating the need for sophisticated attack vectors or network-based exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the iOS Settings application's failure to implement proper cryptographic protection for sensitive passcode data. According to CWE-312, this represents a cleartext storage of sensitive data vulnerability where authentication credentials are stored without adequate encryption or obfuscation mechanisms. The flaw operates at the file system level where the passcode is written to a location that lacks proper access controls or encryption, making it trivially accessible to any process or user with read permissions to that specific file. This design oversight creates a persistent exposure that remains active throughout the device's operational lifecycle, as the cleartext passcode file persists even after the device is powered off and restarted.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass potential unauthorized access to restricted content and services. An attacker with physical access to an iOS device can easily extract the parental restrictions passcode and subsequently bypass parental controls, potentially gaining access to inappropriate content or services that the passcode was designed to prevent. This vulnerability directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1213.001 which involves data from information repositories and can be exploited to compromise device integrity and user privacy. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where devices may be lost, stolen, or accessed by unauthorized individuals, as the passcode remains accessible even when the device is locked or the user is not actively using it.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-3429 should focus on immediate remediation through iOS version updates to 5.0 or later, where Apple implemented proper encryption mechanisms for storing parental restrictions passcodes. Organizations and individuals should also implement additional protective measures such as enabling strong device encryption, implementing robust screen lock policies, and establishing clear device usage guidelines. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure configuration management and proper credential handling practices as outlined in security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53, which emphasizes the need for secure data storage and access control mechanisms. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar storage vulnerabilities in other system components, as this flaw demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation decisions can create significant security risks. Device administrators should also consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can enforce additional security policies and monitor for unauthorized access attempts to sensitive device configurations.