CVE-2017-2446 in tvOS
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in certain Apple products. iOS before 10.3 is affected. Safari before 10.1 is affected. tvOS before 10.2 is affected. The issue involves the "WebKit" component. It allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted web site that leverages the mishandling of strict mode functions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2446 represents a critical security flaw within Apple's WebKit rendering engine that affected multiple Apple operating systems including iOS versions prior to 10.3, Safari versions before 10.1, and tvOS versions before 10.2. This vulnerability resides within the core web browsing component that processes and renders web content across Apple's ecosystem, making it a prime target for remote exploitation by malicious actors. The flaw specifically manifests in how WebKit handles strict mode functions, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems without user interaction.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages a specific edge case in JavaScript's strict mode implementation within WebKit's JavaScript engine. When a malicious website loads content that triggers improper handling of strict mode functions, the engine experiences a memory corruption issue that can be leveraged to gain arbitrary code execution privileges. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-122 which describes "Heap-based Buffer Overflow" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript" as attackers can execute malicious JavaScript code through compromised web pages. The vulnerability's exploitation requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or compromised websites.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2446 extends beyond individual user devices to potentially compromise entire Apple ecosystems where users may browse untrusted websites. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors on affected devices. The broad scope of affected Apple products including mobile devices, desktop browsers, and television operating systems creates a significant attack surface that could be exploited in targeted campaigns. Organizations relying on Apple devices for business operations face potential data breaches and system compromise, while individual users risk personal information theft and device takeover. The vulnerability's remote execution capability means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere in the world without requiring physical access to the target device.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2446 primarily involve immediate system updates to the affected Apple operating systems, specifically iOS 10.3, Safari 10.1, and tvOS 10.2, which contain patches addressing the WebKit strict mode function handling issue. Organizations should implement network-level protections including web filtering solutions that can block access to known malicious domains and content. Browser hardening measures such as disabling JavaScript on untrusted websites and implementing strict content security policies can provide additional defense layers. Security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise including unusual network traffic patterns or unauthorized access attempts. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing of Apple device environments can help identify potential exploitation attempts. The patching process should be prioritized across all affected Apple products with particular attention to enterprise environments where multiple devices may be at risk. Additionally, user education regarding safe browsing practices and the dangers of visiting untrusted websites remains crucial in defending against this type of remote code execution vulnerability.