CVE-2014-1301 in WebKit
Summary
by MITRE
WebKit, as used in Apple Safari before 6.1.3 and 7.x before 7.0.3, 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-2014-04-01-1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2026
This vulnerability exists within the WebKit rendering engine component that powers Apple Safari web browser across multiple versions. The flaw represents a memory corruption issue that can be triggered through maliciously crafted web content, allowing remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems or cause application crashes. The vulnerability specifically affects Safari versions prior to 6.1.3 and 7.x versions before 7.0.3, making it a significant security concern for users running these older browser versions.
The technical nature of this vulnerability falls under memory corruption patterns that are commonly classified as CWE-121, which deals with stack-based buffer overflow conditions. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate memory layout through crafted web pages that exploit improper input validation and memory handling within the WebKit engine. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be leveraged remotely without requiring any local privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it a prime target for drive-by attack scenarios.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability represents a critical risk to enterprise and individual users alike. The ability to execute arbitrary code remotely means that attackers could potentially install malware, steal sensitive data, or take complete control of affected systems. The denial of service aspect further compounds the risk as it can be used to disrupt normal business operations through application crashes. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution and T1499 - Endpoint Denial of Service, highlighting both the execution and availability aspects of the threat.
The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the widespread use of Safari as a default browser on macOS systems and its integration with various Apple services. Attackers can leverage this flaw through social engineering campaigns or by compromising websites that are visited by unsuspecting users. The vulnerability's classification as a different issue from other WebKit CVEs indicates it represents a unique memory corruption pattern that wasn't addressed by previous patches, making it particularly concerning for security teams managing legacy browser versions. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected Safari versions and implement additional security measures such as web application firewalls and browser hardening configurations to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
The remediation strategy should focus on immediate deployment of Apple's security patches for Safari versions 6.1.3 and 7.0.3, while also implementing network-level protections to block access to known malicious domains. Security teams should monitor for exploitation attempts and consider implementing browser isolation techniques for high-risk environments. This vulnerability demonstrates the ongoing importance of keeping web browser components updated and highlights the need for comprehensive vulnerability management programs that address both known and emerging threats in web rendering engines.