CVE-2012-3666 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
WebKit, as used in Apple Safari before 6.0, 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-2012-07-25-1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/04/2025
CVE-2012-3666 represents a critical memory corruption vulnerability affecting WebKit rendering engine used in Apple Safari versions prior to 6.0. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 weakness category, specifically addressing out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to unpredictable behavior and potential code execution. The flaw resides in how WebKit processes certain web content, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted websites can trigger memory corruption through improper handling of data structures during web page rendering.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a user visits a malicious website that contains specially crafted HTML or JavaScript code designed to manipulate WebKit's memory management systems. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code on the victim's system or cause application crashes that result in denial of service conditions. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with heap-based buffer overflows and memory corruption patterns that have been extensively documented in cybersecurity literature and classified under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter.
This vulnerability poses significant operational risks to organizations relying on Safari browsers, as it can be exploited through social engineering tactics such as phishing campaigns or compromised websites. The impact extends beyond individual user devices to potentially affect enterprise environments where Safari is the default browser, creating opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access or disrupt business operations. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw means that no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website is required for exploitation to occur.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to Safari 6.0 or later versions that contain the necessary patches for this vulnerability. Additionally, network security controls such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can provide additional layers of protection. Browser security configurations should be reviewed to ensure that automatic plugin execution and script loading are properly restricted. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date browser versions and implementing comprehensive patch management programs to protect against similar memory corruption issues that may arise in other browser components or web technologies.