CVE-2019-8682 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
The issue was addressed with improved UI handling. This issue is fixed in iOS 12.4, watchOS 5.3. A user may inadvertently complete an in-app purchase while on the lock screen.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2023
The vulnerability described in CVE-2019-8682 represents a critical security flaw in Apple's iOS and watchOS operating systems that stems from inadequate user interface handling mechanisms. This issue specifically affects the lock screen environment where users can potentially complete in-app purchases without proper authorization or explicit consent. The vulnerability arises from the improper state management of in-app purchase workflows when the device is locked, creating an exploitable condition where transactions can be initiated and completed without the user's full awareness or deliberate action.
The technical implementation flaw manifests in the way the operating system handles user interface events and purchase workflows when transitioning between active and locked states. When a device is locked, the normal security boundaries and user confirmation mechanisms that typically prevent unauthorized transactions are bypassed or inadequately enforced. This creates a scenario where an attacker or even an unwitting user could trigger in-app purchase flows while the device remains locked, potentially leading to unauthorized financial transactions. The vulnerability demonstrates a failure in proper access control implementation and user authentication verification during critical transactional operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized purchases to encompass broader security implications for mobile device users and financial institutions. Users may unknowingly authorize purchases while their devices are locked, creating potential financial losses and fraudulent transaction scenarios. The issue particularly affects users who leave their devices unlocked or whose lock screen security measures are bypassed, such as through biometric authentication methods that may not properly verify user intent. This vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and proper authorization controls, creating opportunities for financial fraud and unauthorized access to user accounts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-8682 should focus on implementing enhanced security measures that ensure proper user authentication and transaction confirmation processes regardless of device state. System administrators and users should ensure that all devices are updated to the patched versions mentioned in the advisory, specifically iOS 12.4 and watchOS 5.3, which address the underlying UI handling issues. Additional protective measures include enabling strong passcode requirements, configuring automatic lock timeouts, and implementing additional transaction verification mechanisms. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-668 which addresses "Exposure of Resource to Wrong Sphere" and represents a failure in proper access control implementation. Organizations should also consider implementing transaction monitoring systems that can detect unusual purchase patterns and provide additional verification steps for high-value transactions. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this under privilege escalation and credential access techniques where attackers could potentially exploit the lock screen environment to gain unauthorized access to financial resources through seemingly legitimate user interface interactions.