CVE-2018-4335 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
A validation issue was addressed with improved input sanitization. This issue affected versions prior to iOS 12.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-4335 represents a critical input validation flaw that existed in iOS versions prior to iOS 12. This issue falls under the broader category of improper input validation vulnerabilities, which are commonly classified as CWE-20 in the Common Weakness Enumeration framework. The vulnerability stemmed from inadequate sanitization of user inputs within the iOS operating system, creating potential attack vectors that could be exploited by malicious actors to manipulate system behavior or execute unauthorized operations.
The technical nature of this flaw involved insufficient validation mechanisms that allowed malformed or malicious input to bypass normal security checks within the iOS ecosystem. Attackers could potentially leverage this weakness to inject harmful data or commands that would be processed without proper verification, leading to potential system compromise or unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability specifically affected the input handling mechanisms that govern how iOS processes various forms of user interaction and data entry across different applications and system components.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-4335 was significant given that iOS devices represent critical infrastructure for millions of users worldwide. The vulnerability could potentially enable attackers to perform unauthorized actions on affected devices, including but not limited to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, or system manipulation. This type of vulnerability aligns with tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the initial access and execution phases, where adversaries exploit input validation weaknesses to gain unauthorized system access. The affected versions prior to iOS 12 created a window of exposure where users were particularly vulnerable to attack vectors that could exploit the improper input sanitization mechanisms.
Apple addressed this vulnerability through the release of iOS 12, which implemented improved input sanitization measures to prevent the exploitation of this validation flaw. The remediation focused on strengthening the input validation processes and enhancing the sanitization of user inputs across all system components. Organizations and users were strongly advised to upgrade to iOS 12 or later versions to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability. The fix demonstrated the importance of continuous security updates and the necessity of maintaining current system versions to protect against known vulnerabilities that could be exploited by threat actors. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of robust input validation mechanisms in preventing a wide range of security exploits and maintaining the overall integrity of mobile operating systems.