CVE-2016-4690 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in certain Apple products. iOS before 10.2 is affected. The issue involves the "Image Capture" component, which allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted USB HID device.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/05/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-4690 represents a critical security flaw within Apple's iOS operating system affecting versions prior to 10.2. This issue resides within the Image Capture component, which serves as a core system functionality for processing and managing image data from various sources including digital cameras, scanners, and other imaging devices. The vulnerability specifically targets the handling of USB Human Interface Device (HID) connections, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through seemingly benign hardware interactions. The flaw demonstrates how peripheral device management can become a vector for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution within a controlled environment.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the Image Capture framework when processing USB HID device descriptors and communication protocols. When a malicious USB HID device is connected to an affected iOS device, the system's failure to properly validate the device's configuration and command sequences allows attackers to inject and execute unauthorized code directly within the operating system context. This represents a classic buffer overflow and privilege escalation vulnerability where the system's trust in legitimate device communication pathways is exploited. The flaw operates at the kernel level within iOS's device management subsystem, making it particularly dangerous as it can bypass traditional user-space security controls and execute with system-level privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-4690 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities, as it enables attackers to gain persistent control over affected devices without requiring user interaction or explicit authorization. This vulnerability can be exploited in various attack scenarios including supply chain attacks where malicious hardware is introduced through legitimate procurement channels, or targeted attacks against high-value targets through social engineering tactics that encourage physical device connection. The attack vector requires physical access to the target device, which aligns with the attack pattern described in the attack tree framework, though the implications are severe given the system-level privileges that can be obtained. This vulnerability specifically maps to CWE-122, which addresses buffer overflow conditions, and can be categorized under the attack technique of privilege escalation through device manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate system updates to iOS version 10.2 or later, which includes patches that strengthen input validation for USB HID device communications and implement stricter device access controls. Organizations should also implement comprehensive device management policies that restrict unauthorized USB device connections, particularly in enterprise environments where physical security controls may be less stringent. Network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect anomalous USB device connection patterns and potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, security awareness training should emphasize the risks of connecting unknown or untrusted USB devices, as this vulnerability demonstrates how physical access can be leveraged for remote code execution. The remediation process should include thorough device inventory management to identify and isolate potentially compromised systems, with continuous monitoring for signs of exploitation attempts that may have occurred before patching. This vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current security patches and demonstrates how peripheral device management requires robust security controls to prevent unauthorized access to system resources.