CVE-2019-8735 in iCloud
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple memory corruption issues were addressed with improved memory handling. This issue is fixed in tvOS 13, iTunes for Windows 12.10.1, iCloud for Windows 10.7, iCloud for Windows 7.14. Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-8735 represents a critical memory corruption issue affecting multiple Apple platforms and software components. This flaw resides in the memory handling mechanisms of Apple's ecosystem, specifically impacting tvOS 13, iTunes for Windows 12.10.1, and various iCloud for Windows versions. The vulnerability stems from inadequate memory management practices that fail to properly validate or sanitize input data during web content processing operations. According to CWE-125, this issue manifests as out-of-bounds read conditions that can occur when the affected software attempts to access memory locations beyond the allocated boundaries. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through the processing of maliciously crafted web content, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic memory corruption pattern where improper bounds checking allows attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite critical program structures. When legitimate web content is processed through Apple's affected software components, the memory handling routines fail to properly validate the size or content of incoming data streams. This creates opportunities for attackers to craft malicious web pages or content that, when rendered by the vulnerable software, triggers buffer overflows or other memory corruption conditions. The issue aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes the use of memory corruption vulnerabilities to gain code execution privileges. The vulnerability affects not just individual applications but entire software ecosystems, as the memory handling flaws exist across multiple platform implementations.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-8735 extends beyond simple memory corruption to represent a significant threat to system integrity and user security. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can achieve arbitrary code execution, potentially allowing them to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent access to affected systems. The widespread nature of the affected software components means that numerous users across different platforms could be at risk, particularly those who frequently interact with web content through iTunes or iCloud services. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction, as simply viewing malicious web content can trigger the memory corruption sequence. Organizations and individuals using affected versions of these Apple applications face heightened risk of compromise, as the flaw can be leveraged for both targeted attacks and broader exploitation campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-8735 must prioritize immediate software updates to the patched versions mentioned in the advisory. System administrators should ensure that all affected Apple software components are updated to their latest versions, including tvOS 13, iTunes for Windows 12.10.1, and iCloud for Windows 10.7 or 7.14. Beyond patch management, network administrators should implement content filtering measures to prevent access to known malicious web domains that could exploit this vulnerability. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual network traffic patterns or unauthorized code execution attempts that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper memory management techniques, as outlined in industry standards such as the CERT Secure Coding Standards. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls including web application firewalls, sandboxing mechanisms, and regular vulnerability assessments to reduce the attack surface and prevent successful exploitation attempts.