CVE-2019-6200 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE
An out-of-bounds read was addressed with improved input validation. This issue is fixed in iOS 12.1.3, macOS Mojave 10.14.3. An attacker in a privileged network position may be able to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-6200 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw that affects Apple's iOS and macOS operating systems. This type of vulnerability occurs when a program attempts to access memory locations beyond the allocated boundaries of an array or buffer, creating potential pathways for malicious exploitation. The issue was specifically addressed through enhanced input validation mechanisms that prevent unauthorized memory access patterns.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it within the scope of CWE-125, which defines out-of-bounds read conditions as a fundamental memory safety issue. When an application processes user-supplied data or network packets without proper boundary checks, it becomes susceptible to reading memory locations that do not belong to the intended data structure. This flaw allows attackers to potentially access sensitive information or manipulate program execution flow.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-6200 is particularly concerning as it enables attackers positioned in privileged network positions to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This means that adversaries who can intercept network traffic or gain access to a local network environment may exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized control over iOS devices or macOS systems. The attack vector suggests that network-based exploitation is possible, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where network traffic is not properly secured or monitored.
The remediation for this vulnerability was implemented through iOS 12.1.3 and macOS Mojave 10.14.3 updates, which incorporated improved input validation routines to prevent the out-of-bounds memory access conditions. Security researchers and system administrators should prioritize applying these updates across all affected systems to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Organizations should also implement network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous traffic patterns potentially associated with exploitation attempts.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and control through application layer protocols. The ability to execute arbitrary code through memory corruption vulnerabilities represents a significant escalation path for threat actors. The fact that this vulnerability requires a privileged network position suggests that organizations should focus on network segmentation and traffic inspection to limit potential attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of defensive programming practices and the necessity of implementing robust input validation mechanisms to prevent memory safety issues that could lead to full system compromise.
The broader implications of CVE-2019-6200 highlight the ongoing challenge of memory safety vulnerabilities in modern operating systems and the critical need for continuous security updates. This flaw serves as a reminder of how seemingly minor input validation issues can create significant security risks when exploited by determined attackers with network access privileges. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability as part of a comprehensive approach to defending against advanced persistent threats that leverage memory corruption techniques to establish persistent access to target systems.