CVE-2016-1829 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
The kernel in Apple iOS before 9.3.2, OS X before 10.11.5, tvOS before 9.2.1, and watchOS before 2.2.1 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-2016-1827, CVE-2016-1828, and CVE-2016-1830.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/06/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical kernel-level memory corruption flaw affecting multiple Apple operating systems including iOS 9.3.1 and earlier, OS X 10.11.4 and earlier, tvOS 9.2.0 and earlier, and watchOS 2.2.0 and earlier. The vulnerability exists within the kernel execution context and allows attackers to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code with system-level permissions. Unlike related vulnerabilities CVE-2016-1827, CVE-2016-1828, and CVE-2016-1830, this flaw specifically targets the kernel's memory management subsystem, creating a unique attack surface that bypasses standard security boundaries. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and memory handling mechanisms within the kernel's core components, particularly affecting how the system processes crafted applications or malicious payloads.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a malicious application is executed on an affected system, triggering a memory corruption condition that allows unauthorized code execution in kernel space. This type of flaw falls under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow conditions, both of which are common categories for kernel-level memory corruption vulnerabilities. The attack vector typically involves a crafted application that leverages improper bounds checking or memory allocation routines within the kernel's memory management functions. The vulnerability enables attackers to bypass standard privilege separation mechanisms and gain root-level access to the system, potentially allowing for complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code with the highest system privileges, effectively granting them complete control over the affected devices. This includes the ability to install malicious applications, modify system files, access sensitive user data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects not only individual user devices but also enterprise environments where Apple devices are commonly deployed. The memory corruption aspect of the flaw also introduces potential for denial of service conditions, where system stability may be compromised through memory exhaustion or corruption of critical kernel structures. The widespread nature of affected operating systems means that large user populations were exposed to this risk, particularly given the prevalence of iOS devices in both consumer and enterprise markets.
Organizations and users should immediately apply the security updates released by Apple for iOS 9.3.2, OS X 10.11.5, tvOS 9.2.1, and watchOS 2.2.1 to remediate this vulnerability. System administrators should prioritize patch deployment across all affected devices, particularly in enterprise environments where device security is paramount. Additional mitigations include implementing application whitelisting policies, monitoring for suspicious application behavior, and maintaining comprehensive endpoint protection solutions. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of kernel security and proper memory management practices, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers privilege escalation through kernel exploits. Organizations should also consider implementing network-based monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain incident response procedures specifically tailored to address kernel-level vulnerabilities. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any remaining unpatched systems within the organization's infrastructure.