CVE-2014-1366 in Safari
Summary
by MITRE
WebKit, as used in Apple iOS before 7.1.2, Apple Safari before 6.1.5 and 7.x before 7.0.5, and Apple TV before 6.1.2, 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-2014-06-30-1, APPLE-SA-2014-06-30-3, and APPLE-SA-2014-06-30-4.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/08/2022
This vulnerability resides within the WebKit rendering engine, a critical component that powers web browsing functionality across Apple's ecosystem including iOS, Safari, and Apple TV. The flaw represents a memory corruption issue that enables remote code execution through maliciously crafted web content, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited simply by visiting a compromised website. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple products and versions, specifically iOS before 7.1.2, Safari before 6.1.5 and 7.x before 7.0.5, and Apple TV before 6.1.2, indicating a widespread impact across Apple's mobile and desktop platforms. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of heap-based buffer overflows or memory corruption flaws that are commonly classified under CWE-122 and CWE-125, representing weak memory management controls that allow attackers to manipulate memory allocation and execution flow. The technical nature of the flaw suggests that attackers can manipulate WebKit's memory handling routines through crafted web content, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or denial of service conditions that could crash applications and render them unavailable to users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple exploitation to encompass significant security risks for end users and organizations relying on Apple's platforms. Attackers could leverage this flaw to execute malicious code on targeted devices without requiring any user interaction beyond visiting a compromised website, making it particularly insidious for phishing campaigns and drive-by attacks. The vulnerability's classification as a memory corruption issue means that successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain full control over affected devices, potentially enabling data theft, surveillance, or further network penetration. The fact that this vulnerability operates through web content delivery makes it especially dangerous in enterprise environments where users may inadvertently visit malicious websites or where targeted attacks could be conducted through compromised web applications. Additionally, the vulnerability's presence in Apple TV systems indicates that it could potentially be exploited in home network environments or through compromised streaming services, expanding the attack surface beyond traditional computing platforms.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. Apple's recommended solution involves updating affected systems to the patched versions, specifically iOS 7.1.2, Safari 6.1.5 and 7.0.5, and Apple TV 6.1.2, which contain memory management fixes and improved input validation controls. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all affected Apple devices are updated promptly, as the vulnerability could be exploited by threat actors targeting Apple users. Network security controls including web filtering and proxy configurations can provide additional layers of protection by blocking access to known malicious websites, though these measures may not prevent exploitation of zero-day vulnerabilities. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual network traffic patterns or application behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly around web browsing activities. The vulnerability's characteristics align with tactics described in the ATT&CK framework under T1059 for command and control communications and T1070 for indicator removal, suggesting that exploitation could involve establishing persistent access or attempting to cover tracks through malicious code execution. Organizations should also consider implementing device management solutions that can enforce security policies and ensure timely patch deployment across all Apple devices in their environment.