CVE-2016-1754 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
The kernel in Apple iOS before 9.3, OS X before 10.11.4, tvOS before 9.2, and watchOS before 2.2 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in a privileged context or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted app, a different vulnerability than CVE-2016-1755.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical kernel-level memory corruption flaw affecting multiple Apple operating systems including iOS versions prior to 9.3, OS X versions before 10.11.4, tvOS versions before 9.2, and watchOS versions before 2.2. The vulnerability exists within the kernel's memory management subsystem and allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges or cause system-wide denial of service conditions. The flaw specifically manifests when processing crafted applications that exploit memory corruption vulnerabilities in kernel space, making it particularly dangerous as it operates at the most privileged level of the operating system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with common kernel exploitation patterns where improper input validation or memory handling leads to buffer overflows, use-after-free conditions, or other memory corruption issues. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by installing and executing a malicious application that triggers the kernel memory corruption, potentially gaining root-level access to the system. The vulnerability differs from CVE-2016-1755, indicating it represents a distinct code path or memory handling issue within the kernel implementation. This type of vulnerability typically falls under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, or CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflows, though the exact classification would depend on the specific memory corruption mechanism exploited.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-1754 is severe as it enables attackers to achieve persistent system compromise without requiring user interaction beyond installing a malicious application. Once exploited, the vulnerability allows for complete system control, including access to all user data, network communications, and system resources. The memory corruption can also result in system crashes or reboots, creating potential denial of service scenarios that could be weaponized for persistent disruption. The attack surface is broad given that the vulnerability affects multiple Apple platforms, making it a target for attackers seeking to exploit the largest possible user base.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying the official security patches released by Apple, which typically include kernel memory management fixes and input validation improvements. System administrators should prioritize updating all affected devices to the patched versions of iOS, OS X, tvOS, and watchOS to eliminate the risk. Additionally, organizations should implement application whitelisting policies to prevent installation of untrusted applications, as this vulnerability specifically requires a crafted app to be installed and executed. Network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect suspicious application installation activities and potential exploitation attempts. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as attackers may attempt to leverage the compromised system for further malicious activities after successful exploitation.