CVE-2015-5920 in iTunes
Summary
by MITRE
The Software Update component in Apple iTunes before 12.3 does not properly handle redirection, which allows man-in-the-middle attackers to discover encrypted SMB credentials via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-5920 resides within Apple iTunes software version 12.2 and earlier, specifically within its Software Update component. This flaw represents a critical security oversight that stems from inadequate handling of redirection mechanisms during software update processes. The vulnerability manifests when iTunes attempts to download updates from remote servers, creating an opportunity for malicious actors positioned between the user's device and update servers to intercept and manipulate network traffic.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper validation of redirect responses during the software update download process. When iTunes encounters a redirect during update retrieval, it fails to properly verify the authenticity and integrity of the redirect target. This weakness allows attackers to perform man-in-the-middle attacks by intercepting the update request and redirecting it to malicious servers. The attack vector specifically targets the transmission of SMB credentials, which are often encrypted but remain susceptible to interception when the redirect mechanism is improperly handled. The vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond normal iTunes usage, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited automatically during routine update processes.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-5920 extends beyond simple credential theft, as it represents a fundamental breakdown in the security architecture of iTunes update mechanisms. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can potentially gain access to encrypted SMB credentials, which may then be used to access network resources, compromise additional systems, or establish persistent access points within corporate or personal networks. The vulnerability affects users running iTunes versions prior to 12.3, creating a significant risk surface for organizations and individuals who have not updated their software. This flaw particularly impacts enterprise environments where iTunes is commonly used for device management and software distribution, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access to networked systems.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as a variant of improper redirection handling that aligns with CWE-617, which addresses reachable assertion conditions in software implementations. The attack pattern corresponds to techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1071.004 sub-technique for application layer protocol: smb/rpc, and represents a classic example of how update mechanisms can become attack vectors. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including mandatory software updates to iTunes 12.3 or later, network monitoring for suspicious redirect patterns, and the deployment of network security controls such as deep packet inspection to detect and prevent malicious redirection attempts. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of credential compromise, while also ensuring that all update processes are conducted through secure, authenticated channels. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure update mechanisms and proper input validation in preventing man-in-the-middle attacks.