CVE-2015-6986 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
com.apple.driver.AppleVXD393 in the Graphics Driver subsystem in Apple iOS before 9.1 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted app that leverages an unspecified "type confusion."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/24/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-6986 resides within the Graphics Driver subsystem of Apple iOS, specifically affecting versions prior to 9.1. This flaw is embedded within the AppleVXD393 driver component that manages graphics processing operations on iOS devices. The vulnerability represents a critical security weakness that could enable remote code execution when exploited by malicious actors. The affected subsystem operates at a low level within the operating system kernel, handling graphics rendering tasks that are fundamental to the device's user interface and application performance. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the core system drivers that interface directly with hardware components.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from a type confusion flaw that occurs when the graphics driver fails to properly validate data types during processing operations. Type confusion vulnerabilities typically arise when a program incorrectly handles data that is expected to be of one type but is actually of another, leading to memory corruption and potential code execution. In this case, the unspecified nature of the type confusion suggests that the vulnerability occurs when the driver processes malformed graphics data or rendering commands from a malicious application. The flaw likely manifests during buffer operations or memory management within the graphics processing pipeline, where the driver's type checking mechanisms fail to properly validate input parameters before executing operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a pathway to gain unauthorized control over iOS devices. When exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, effectively bypassing the normal security boundaries that protect user data and system integrity. This could enable malicious actors to install persistent malware, access encrypted data, monitor user activities, or modify system configurations without detection. The attack vector requires only a crafted application that leverages the graphics processing capabilities, making it particularly concerning for mobile environments where users frequently install third-party applications. The vulnerability's exploitation potential aligns with attack patterns described in the attack tree framework, where initial compromise through a seemingly legitimate application can lead to complete system takeover.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying the official security updates released by Apple, which include patches to the graphics driver subsystem and related kernel components. Users should immediately update to iOS 9.1 or later versions to remediate the vulnerability, as Apple's security patches address the underlying type confusion issue through improved input validation and memory management procedures. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for suspicious graphics processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining current security patches and highlights the risks associated with outdated system components. Organizations should also review their mobile device management policies to ensure comprehensive protection against similar kernel-level vulnerabilities that could compromise device security and data integrity.
This vulnerability relates to CWE-476 which describes NULL pointer dereference, and also aligns with attack techniques categorized under T1059 in the MITRE ATT&CK framework for execution through legitimate system tools. The type confusion nature of the flaw represents a common pattern in kernel-level vulnerabilities that can be exploited to achieve privilege escalation and persistent access to target systems.