CVE-2014-1352 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
Lock Screen in Apple iOS before 7.1.2 does not properly enforce the limit on failed passcode attempts, which makes it easier for physically proximate attackers to conduct brute-force passcode-guessing attacks via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/01/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2014-1352 represents a significant security flaw in Apple iOS lock screen implementation that persisted across multiple versions prior to iOS 7.1.2. This weakness specifically targets the passcode enforcement mechanisms that are critical for device security and user privacy protection. The vulnerability exposes a fundamental failure in the device's authentication system where the built-in security controls designed to prevent unauthorized access through repeated passcode guessing attempts are insufficiently enforced. This represents a serious degradation in the security posture of iOS devices, particularly affecting users who rely on passcode protection as their primary defense mechanism against unauthorized physical access.
The technical flaw manifests in the lock screen's inability to properly enforce the maximum number of failed passcode attempts that should normally trigger protective measures such as device lockout periods or complete reset of the authentication system. This failure allows attackers to repeatedly attempt passcode guesses without encountering the expected rate limiting or account lockout mechanisms that would normally prevent brute-force attacks. The unspecified vectors mentioned in the description suggest that the vulnerability could be exploited through various physical proximity methods including direct access to the device, use of automated tools, or even social engineering approaches that facilitate repeated guessing attempts. This weakness essentially undermines the core principle of authentication security where repeated failed attempts should trigger protective measures to prevent automated or systematic guessing attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial for users who store sensitive data on their iOS devices, as it significantly reduces the effectiveness of passcode-based security. Physically proximate attackers can exploit this weakness to conduct extended brute-force attacks against locked devices, potentially gaining access to personal information, financial data, corporate secrets, and other sensitive content stored on the device. The vulnerability particularly affects users who rely on simple or commonly used passcodes, as the lack of proper enforcement means that attackers can make numerous attempts without triggering protective measures. This creates an environment where devices can be compromised through systematic guessing rather than requiring more sophisticated attack vectors, fundamentally weakening the security model that users expect from their mobile devices.
The vulnerability demonstrates a clear violation of security principles related to authentication controls and access management, aligning with CWE-307 which addresses improper restriction of excessive authentication attempts. From an adversarial perspective, this weakness falls into the category of privilege escalation through authentication bypass, representing a significant concern in mobile security contexts. Organizations and individuals who depend on iOS devices for sensitive data protection face increased risk of data breaches, identity theft, and unauthorized access to confidential information. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper implementation of security controls that prevent automated attacks, as outlined in the ATT&CK framework's authentication bypass techniques. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability required a specific software update to resolve, emphasizing the need for timely patch management and the potential for widespread impact when authentication controls are inadequately implemented. The remediation process for this vulnerability required users to upgrade to iOS 7.1.2 or later versions, demonstrating how security flaws in fundamental system components can create widespread exposure across affected device populations.