CVE-2015-7066 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
OpenGL in Apple iOS before 9.2, OS X before 10.11.2, tvOS before 9.1, and watchOS before 2.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted web site, a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-7064.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-7066 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within the OpenGL graphics subsystem of Apple's operating systems. This issue affects multiple Apple platforms including iOS versions prior to 9.2, macOS versions before 10.11.2, tvOS versions before 9.1, and watchOS versions before 2.1. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of graphics rendering operations within the OpenGL framework, creating a pathway for remote code execution through malicious web content. Security researchers have classified this as a distinct vulnerability from CVE-2015-7064, indicating separate code paths and exploitation mechanisms that require different mitigation approaches.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from buffer overflows and memory corruption issues within OpenGL implementation when processing specially crafted graphics data from web browsers. When a user visits a malicious website containing crafted OpenGL content, the graphics rendering engine fails to properly validate input parameters, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code with system privileges. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-125, which covers out-of-bounds read errors. The flaw operates at the intersection of web browser graphics rendering and operating system graphics libraries, creating a complex attack surface that requires careful analysis of both components.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-7066 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it enables full remote code execution capabilities that could allow attackers to compromise entire systems. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to install malicious software, access sensitive user data, or establish persistent backdoors on affected devices. The widespread adoption of Apple's platforms and the prevalence of web browsing activities make this vulnerability particularly dangerous in real-world scenarios. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers scripting languages for execution, and T1203, which addresses exploitation of remote services. The attack vector through web content means that users could be compromised simply by visiting a malicious website, making this a particularly insidious threat.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-7066 primarily involve updating affected Apple operating systems to their patched versions, which include memory safety improvements and input validation fixes within the OpenGL framework. Organizations should implement immediate patch management protocols to ensure all Apple devices within their environments receive the necessary security updates. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing web filtering solutions to block access to known malicious domains and monitor for unusual graphics-related network traffic patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date graphics drivers and system components, as it highlights how graphics subsystems can become attack vectors for privilege escalation and remote code execution. Security teams should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments focusing on graphics rendering components and browser security configurations to identify potential similar vulnerabilities in other system components.