CVE-2013-0980 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
The Passcode Lock implementation in Apple iOS before 6.1.3 does not properly manage the lock state, which allows physically proximate attackers to bypass an intended passcode requirement by leveraging an error in the emergency-call feature.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2022
The vulnerability described in CVE-2013-0980 represents a critical security flaw in Apple iOS versions prior to 6.1.3 that fundamentally undermines the device's passcode protection mechanism. This issue specifically targets the passcode lock implementation within the operating system's security framework, creating a significant bypass opportunity for attackers who are physically present with the target device. The vulnerability exploits a design weakness in how the system manages lock states, particularly when emergency calls are initiated, allowing unauthorized access without proper authentication. The flaw demonstrates a failure in the security model's integrity, where the emergency call functionality inadvertently creates an exploitable path that circumvents the primary authentication mechanism. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of improper access control as defined by CWE-284, where the system fails to properly enforce access restrictions that should be maintained even during emergency scenarios.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a specific sequence involving the emergency call feature within the lock screen interface. When a user attempts to make an emergency call from the locked screen, the system's lock state management becomes inconsistent, creating a window where the device can be accessed without proper passcode verification. The flaw exists because the emergency call implementation does not properly maintain the device's locked state, allowing immediate access to the device's interface and potentially sensitive data. This behavior violates the fundamental security principle that authentication mechanisms should remain effective regardless of how a user attempts to access the device, as outlined in the NIST SP 800-53 security controls. The vulnerability specifically affects the interaction between the lock screen service and the telephony subsystem, where the emergency call handler fails to properly validate the security context before allowing access to the device's core functionality.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with immediate access to potentially sensitive information stored on the device. Physical proximity becomes the sole requirement for exploitation, making this attack vector particularly dangerous in environments where devices may be left unattended or where attackers have opportunity to approach target devices. The vulnerability creates a persistent security risk that can be exploited repeatedly without requiring additional privileges or complex attack chains. Attackers can leverage this flaw to access personal data, communications, financial information, and other sensitive content stored on the iOS device. The exploitation is particularly concerning because it does not require network connectivity or sophisticated attack tools, relying solely on the attacker's physical presence and basic device interaction capabilities. This makes the vulnerability suitable for various attack scenarios including opportunistic theft, workplace security breaches, and targeted attacks against high-value targets.
Organizations and individuals should implement immediate mitigations to address this vulnerability through software updates to iOS 6.1.3 or later versions, which contain the necessary patches to correct the lock state management implementation. The security update resolves the underlying issue by ensuring proper state handling during emergency call operations and maintaining consistent authentication requirements regardless of user interaction patterns. Additional defensive measures include implementing device encryption, enabling automatic lock timeouts, and maintaining awareness of physical security practices to prevent unauthorized access. Security professionals should monitor for related vulnerabilities that might exploit similar lock state management flaws and ensure comprehensive device security policies are in place. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough security testing for emergency features and the need for consistent security controls across all device interaction pathways, particularly those that may be accessed through alternative user interfaces. This case highlights the necessity of considering all potential interaction points when designing security mechanisms, as emergency features can inadvertently create security weaknesses that compromise the overall protection model. The fix implemented by Apple demonstrates the importance of maintaining consistent security contexts even during system transitions and emergency operations, aligning with the principle that security controls should remain effective under all operational conditions as defined by cybersecurity frameworks and standards.