CVE-2016-4733 in tvOS
Summary
by MITRE
WebKit in Apple iOS before 10, Safari before 10, and tvOS before 10 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-2016-4611, CVE-2016-4730, CVE-2016-4734, and CVE-2016-4735.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/21/2022
This vulnerability exists within the WebKit rendering engine component of Apple's mobile and desktop operating systems, specifically affecting iOS versions prior to 10.0, Safari versions prior to 10.0, and tvOS versions prior to 10.0. The flaw represents a critical memory corruption issue that can be exploited through maliciously crafted web content, allowing remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with heap-based buffer overflows or use-after-free conditions that are commonly classified under CWE-122 and CWE-416, where improper memory management leads to exploitable conditions. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by hosting malicious web content on compromised websites or through social engineering campaigns that entice users to visit specifically crafted pages.
The technical exploitation mechanism involves manipulating WebKit's JavaScript engine and rendering components to trigger memory corruption during normal web page processing. When users visit compromised websites, the malicious code can cause memory corruption in the browser's memory space, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the web browser process. This represents a sophisticated attack vector that aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for script-based execution and T1203 for exploitation for execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it a prime candidate for drive-by download attacks and automated exploitation campaigns.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to include potential system compromise and data theft. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security controls, escalate privileges, and gain persistent access to affected systems. The memory corruption aspect makes the vulnerability particularly challenging to detect and mitigate, as it may not always result in immediate system crashes but could lead to subtle stability issues that are difficult to trace. Organizations using affected Apple platforms face significant risk from this vulnerability, as it affects widely deployed components of the operating system and can be exploited through standard web browsing activities. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw places it within the high-risk category of cybersecurity threats, particularly in enterprise environments where users may inadvertently visit compromised websites.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of affected systems, as Apple released security updates for iOS 10, Safari 10, and tvOS 10 to address this vulnerability. Network administrators should implement web filtering solutions and browser security controls to prevent access to known malicious domains. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping their operating systems updated. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and demonstrates how browser-based exploits can bypass traditional network security controls. Organizations should also consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms and monitoring for unusual memory access patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1211 for exploitation for privilege escalation and T1070 for indicator removal.