CVE-2013-1001 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
WebKit, as used in Apple iTunes before 11.0.3, allows man-in-the-middle attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption and application crash) via vectors related to iTunes Store browsing, a different vulnerability than other WebKit CVEs listed in APPLE-SA-2013-05-16-1.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2021
This vulnerability exists within the WebKit rendering engine component that powers Apple iTunes before version 11.0.3, specifically during iTunes Store browsing operations. The flaw represents a critical security weakness that enables remote attackers to perform man-in-the-middle attacks through carefully crafted network traffic manipulation. The vulnerability manifests when iTunes processes web content from the iTunes Store, creating an attack surface that can be exploited without requiring user interaction or authentication. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-119 which describes improper restriction of operations within a memory buffer, indicating potential memory corruption issues that could lead to arbitrary code execution or system instability. The attack vector involves intercepting network communications between iTunes and Apple's servers, where malicious actors can inject malicious content that triggers the memory corruption flaw during content rendering.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and memory management within WebKit's handling of web content retrieved from iTunes Store. When iTunes processes HTML, JavaScript, or other web assets from the store, the rendering engine fails to properly validate or sanitize the incoming data, creating opportunities for buffer overflows or other memory corruption conditions. This allows attackers to craft specially formatted web content that, when processed by the vulnerable iTunes version, causes memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the iTunes process. The vulnerability is distinct from other WebKit-related issues referenced in APPLE-SA-2013-05-16-1, indicating it affects a different code path or component within the WebKit engine. The impact of successful exploitation includes complete system compromise through arbitrary code execution, potential data theft, or denial of service conditions that can crash the iTunes application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple application instability to encompass serious security risks for users who rely on iTunes for media management and store purchases. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to systems, potentially installing malware or extracting sensitive information from users' devices. The vulnerability affects all users running iTunes versions prior to 11.0.3, making it particularly dangerous as it impacts a widely deployed application. From an adversary perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which describes exploiting vulnerabilities in web browsers or browser components to achieve code execution. The man-in-the-middle attack capability means that attackers can operate in network environments where they can intercept and modify traffic, such as public Wi-Fi networks or compromised network infrastructure. Organizations and individuals using vulnerable iTunes versions face significant risk of compromise, particularly when accessing the iTunes Store or other web-based services through untrusted networks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate application of Apple's security patch through iTunes version 11.0.3 or later, which addresses the underlying WebKit memory corruption issue. System administrators should prioritize deployment of this update across all affected devices and monitor for any signs of exploitation attempts. Network security controls including deep packet inspection and intrusion detection systems can help identify potential exploitation attempts by monitoring for suspicious traffic patterns associated with the vulnerability. Users should avoid accessing iTunes Store content through untrusted networks and consider using encrypted connections when possible. Additionally, organizations should implement network segmentation to limit exposure and ensure that iTunes usage is restricted to trusted environments. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping all software components updated, particularly those that handle web content processing, as these components often represent high-value attack targets for adversaries seeking to establish persistent access to systems.