CVE-2012-0646 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in VPN in Apple iOS before 5.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted racoon configuration file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/21/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0646 represents a critical format string flaw within the VPN implementation of Apple iOS operating systems prior to version 5.1. This weakness exists in the racoon configuration file processing component that handles IPsec VPN connections. The issue stems from improper input validation and handling of user-supplied data within the VPN daemon, specifically when processing configuration parameters that are subsequently used in format string operations. Such vulnerabilities fall under the CWE-134 classification, which specifically addresses the use of format strings without proper validation of the format string arguments, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate program execution flow.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a remote attacker crafts a malicious racoon configuration file containing specially formatted string sequences that are processed by the vulnerable iOS VPN implementation. When the system attempts to parse and execute these malformed format specifiers, the attacker can manipulate the stack contents and potentially overwrite critical program memory locations. This type of attack vector aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the use of command and scripting interpreters, particularly in the context of privilege escalation and code execution within system processes. The vulnerability affects the iOS kernel-level VPN services that utilize the racoon IKE daemon, making it particularly dangerous as it operates at a privileged level within the operating system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to gain unauthorized access to network resources and potentially escalate privileges within the iOS environment. Attackers could leverage this weakness to establish persistent network access, intercept communications, or perform further exploitation against the device or network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the device, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where iOS devices are commonly used for secure communications. Organizations deploying iOS devices for business purposes face significant risk if devices remain unpatched, as the vulnerability could be exploited in man-in-the-middle scenarios or through malicious configuration file delivery mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-0646 primarily involve updating iOS devices to version 5.1 or later, where Apple has implemented proper input validation and format string handling within the racoon VPN component. System administrators should also implement network monitoring to detect unusual VPN configuration file transfers or connections that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additional protective measures include restricting the ability to download or install VPN configuration files from untrusted sources, implementing network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, and maintaining up-to-date security patches across all iOS devices. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in security-critical components and serves as a reminder of the need for comprehensive code review processes to identify and remediate format string vulnerabilities in system-level software components.