CVE-2017-2414 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in certain Apple products. iOS before 10.3 is affected. The issue involves the "DataAccess" component. It allows remote attackers to access Exchange traffic in opportunistic circumstances by leveraging a mistake in typing an e-mail address.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2414 represents a significant security flaw in Apple's iOS operating system affecting versions prior to 10.3. This issue resides within the DataAccess component of the affected systems and demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation errors can create substantial security risks. The vulnerability specifically targets the email address validation and processing mechanisms within the iOS email client, creating a pathway for malicious actors to intercept and access Exchange traffic under certain conditions.
The technical nature of this flaw stems from improper handling of email address input validation within the iOS email client application. When users enter email addresses, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before processing it through the Exchange connectivity protocols. This creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate the email address field in such a way that they can intercept or redirect Exchange traffic intended for legitimate recipients. The vulnerability operates under opportunistic circumstances, meaning it requires specific conditions to be exploited successfully, but once triggered, it can provide unauthorized access to sensitive email communications.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2414 extends beyond simple data interception, as it potentially allows attackers to gain access to corporate email systems and sensitive business communications. Exchange traffic often contains confidential information including proprietary data, financial records, and personal communications that could be valuable to adversaries. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means attackers do not need physical access to devices or network proximity to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where mobile device usage is prevalent. Organizations relying on Exchange services for email communication face increased risk of data breaches and information disclosure when iOS devices are running vulnerable software versions.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which addresses "Improper Input Validation" in software systems, and demonstrates how inadequate validation of user inputs can create security weaknesses. From an attack perspective, the flaw fits within the ATT&CK framework's technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol: email protocols, as it exploits weaknesses in email handling mechanisms. The opportunistic nature of the vulnerability suggests it may be part of a broader class of issues where attackers can leverage human factors and system implementation errors to gain unauthorized access to communications channels. Organizations should prioritize patch management and ensure all iOS devices are updated to version 10.3 or later to mitigate this risk. Additionally, network monitoring and anomaly detection systems should be configured to identify unusual Exchange traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of comprehensive input validation and secure coding practices in mobile email applications, particularly those handling enterprise communication protocols.