CVE-2015-5831 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
NetworkExtension in the kernel in Apple iOS before 9 does not properly initialize an unspecified data structure, which allows attackers to obtain sensitive memory-layout information via a crafted app.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-5831 resides within the NetworkExtension component of Apple iOS kernel implementations prior to version 9. This flaw represents a critical information disclosure vulnerability that stems from improper initialization of an unspecified data structure within the kernel space. The vulnerability manifests when a malicious application attempts to interact with the NetworkExtension framework, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive memory layout information that could be exploited by attackers to gain deeper insights into the system's internal architecture.
This security weakness directly relates to CWE-1288, which addresses improper initialization of data structures in kernel mode environments. The improper initialization allows attackers to leverage information disclosure techniques that could reveal memory addresses, kernel layout details, and other sensitive structural information. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level where the NetworkExtension framework handles network traffic processing and routing, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to understand the underlying system architecture. The unspecified data structure that fails to initialize properly likely contains metadata about memory allocation patterns or kernel object layouts that should remain hidden from user-space applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with critical reconnaissance data that could be leveraged in subsequent exploitation attempts. When an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability through a crafted application, they gain access to memory layout information that could facilitate advanced exploitation techniques such as return-oriented programming attacks, heap spraying, or other memory corruption exploits. The vulnerability affects all iOS versions before 9, representing a significant attack surface that could be exploited across numerous devices in the wild. The memory layout information obtained through this vulnerability could enable attackers to bypass security mechanisms like address space layout randomization, making subsequent attacks more reliable and effective.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-5831 primarily involve upgrading to iOS 9 or later versions where Apple implemented proper initialization of the affected data structure. System administrators and security professionals should prioritize patching affected devices and monitoring for potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of kernel-level security testing and proper initialization of critical data structures. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques related to reconnaissance and privilege escalation, specifically covering the information gathering phase where adversaries collect system information to plan further attacks. Organizations should implement monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous behavior patterns associated with information disclosure attempts and maintain up-to-date threat intelligence to identify potential exploitation of this vulnerability in the wild.