CVE-2014-1287 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
USB Host in Apple iOS before 7.1 and Apple TV before 6.1 allows physically proximate attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via crafted USB messages.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-2014-1287 represents a critical security flaw in the USB host implementation within Apple iOS and Apple TV operating systems. This issue affects versions prior to iOS 7.1 and Apple TV software version 6.1, creating a significant attack surface for adversaries who can gain physical proximity to targeted devices. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and memory management within the USB host controller driver, which processes incoming USB communication messages from connected devices. Attackers exploiting this weakness can craft malicious USB messages that trigger memory corruption conditions, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes.
The technical nature of this vulnerability falls under the category of memory corruption issues, specifically heap overflow or buffer overflow conditions within the USB subsystem. When legitimate USB devices connect to affected Apple devices, the host controller processes the device descriptors and control messages without proper bounds checking. This allows attackers to inject malformed USB packets that exceed expected buffer sizes, causing memory corruption that can be leveraged for privilege escalation or system exploitation. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal physical access and can be exploited through standard USB connections, making it a prime target for sophisticated attack campaigns.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a severe risk for organizations and individuals who rely on Apple devices in environments where physical security cannot be guaranteed. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it does not require network connectivity or complex social engineering tactics, simply physical proximity to the target device. An attacker with access to a USB port and basic technical knowledge can craft malicious USB devices that exploit this vulnerability, potentially gaining full system control or causing denial of service conditions that render devices unusable. The memory corruption aspect means that successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute malicious code with system privileges.
The security implications extend beyond simple device compromise to encompass potential data exfiltration and persistent access mechanisms. Attackers could use this vulnerability to install backdoors, steal sensitive information, or maintain long-term access to compromised systems. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.005 for command and scripting interpreter and T1547.001 for registry run keys, as exploitation could enable persistent access patterns. Organizations should consider implementing USB device whitelisting policies and physical security measures to mitigate this risk, particularly in high-security environments where unauthorized physical access cannot be controlled.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate software updates to iOS 7.1 and Apple TV software version 6.1, which contain patches addressing the USB host memory corruption issues. Additionally, organizations should implement USB device policy controls that restrict which types of USB devices can connect to critical systems, combined with network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement if exploitation occurs. The fix addresses the underlying CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow condition by implementing proper bounds checking and memory management within the USB host controller implementation. Security teams should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments to ensure all connected devices remain patched and monitor for suspicious USB device connections in environments where this vulnerability might be exploited.