CVE-2014-4404 in MacOS X
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in IOHIDFamily in Apple iOS before 8 and Apple TV before 7 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in a privileged context via an application that provides crafted key-mapping properties.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/22/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4404 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the IOHIDFamily component of Apple's operating systems. This flaw exists in iOS versions prior to 8.0 and Apple TV software versions prior to 7.0, affecting a substantial portion of Apple's mobile and television device ecosystem. The IOHIDFamily serves as a fundamental framework responsible for handling human interface device communications including keyboard input, mouse events, and other peripheral interactions within the iOS environment. The vulnerability arises from inadequate bounds checking when processing key-mapping properties provided by applications, creating a condition where maliciously crafted input can overwrite adjacent memory locations in the heap.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully constructed application that supplies malformed key-mapping properties to the IOHIDFamily subsystem. When the system processes these crafted properties, the insufficient input validation allows an attacker to write data beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially overwriting critical memory structures including function pointers, return addresses, or other control data. This heap overflow condition enables attackers to manipulate the execution flow of the privileged IOHIDFamily process, which operates with elevated privileges due to its role in system-level input handling. The vulnerability specifically targets the memory management practices within the HID (Human Interface Device) subsystem, where the kernel-level component handles input device communication and processing.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe threat to device security as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges, bypassing standard security boundaries that typically protect user applications from direct kernel access. The attack vector requires only a malicious application to be installed and executed on the target device, making it particularly dangerous in scenarios where users might unknowingly install compromised applications from untrusted sources. The privilege escalation capability means that an attacker could gain complete control over the device, potentially accessing sensitive user data, modifying system files, or establishing persistent backdoors. The impact extends beyond individual device compromise to potential network-wide attacks if compromised devices are used as entry points for broader infiltration campaigns.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with the attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the privilege escalation and defense evasion techniques. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including prompt deployment of Apple's security updates and patches, particularly the iOS 8.0 and Apple TV 7.0 releases that addressed this specific vulnerability. Additional protective measures include maintaining strict application vetting processes, implementing mobile device management solutions, and monitoring for suspicious application behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. System administrators should also consider network-level monitoring to detect potential exploitation activities and ensure that all Apple devices receive timely security updates to prevent attackers from leveraging this vulnerability in targeted campaigns.