CVE-2014-1827 in iThoughtsHD
Summary
by MITRE
The iThoughtsHD app 4.19 for iOS on iPad devices, when the WiFi Transfer feature is used, allows remote attackers to upload arbitrary files by placing a %00 sequence after a dangerous extension, as demonstrated by a .html%00.txt file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-1827 resides within the iThoughtsHD application version 4.19 for iOS devices, specifically affecting iPad deployments where the WiFi Transfer functionality is enabled. This security flaw represents a classic file extension manipulation attack that exploits improper input validation mechanisms within the application's file handling processes. The vulnerability occurs when users attempt to transfer files via WiFi to the iPad device, creating a pathway for malicious actors to bypass normal file type restrictions through sophisticated manipulation of file extensions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's inadequate sanitization of file names during the transfer process. When a user attempts to upload a file through the WiFi Transfer feature, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the file extension before processing. Attackers can exploit this weakness by appending a null byte sequence %00 to a dangerous file extension, effectively creating a file name that appears to have one extension while actually containing another. The demonstration case shows how a file named .html%00.txt could be uploaded and potentially executed or interpreted by the application in a manner that circumvents normal security boundaries.
This vulnerability operates at the intersection of multiple security domains including input validation, file system manipulation, and application security controls. The weakness aligns with CWE-174, which addresses the issue of insufficient input sanitization, and represents a form of file extension manipulation that can lead to various downstream security consequences. The attack vector leverages the fact that iOS applications may not properly handle null byte sequences in file names, allowing attackers to effectively hide malicious file types within seemingly benign extensions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file upload capabilities and represents a significant risk to device security and data integrity. When exploited, this vulnerability could enable attackers to upload malicious files such as HTML payloads that might be executed within the application context, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or data theft. The WiFi Transfer feature, designed for legitimate file sharing purposes, becomes a vector for privilege escalation and unauthorized system access. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in mobile environments where applications often have extensive access to device resources and user data.
The implications of this vulnerability align with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to initial access and execution phases. Attackers could leverage this weakness to establish a foothold within iOS environments, potentially using the uploaded files to perform further reconnaissance or deploy additional malicious payloads. The vulnerability also represents a form of privilege escalation where normal file transfer operations are subverted to achieve unauthorized system access. Organizations and users should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader threat landscape that includes mobile application security risks and the importance of proper input validation in all application components.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention from both application developers and end users. Application developers must implement robust input validation and sanitization mechanisms that properly handle null byte sequences and file extensions. The fix should include comprehensive file extension filtering that prevents dangerous combinations and ensures proper validation of all file names during transfer operations. Users should disable the WiFi Transfer feature when not actively required and ensure that applications are updated to versions that address this specific vulnerability. Additionally, network monitoring should be implemented to detect anomalous file transfer activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security awareness training should emphasize the risks associated with enabling potentially dangerous features and the importance of keeping applications updated with the latest security patches. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper security testing, particularly for mobile applications that handle file transfers and user-generated content.