CVE-2019-8788 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE
An issue existed in the parsing of URLs. This issue was addressed with improved input validation. This issue is fixed in iOS 13.2 and iPadOS 13.2, macOS Catalina 10.15.1. Improper URL processing may lead to data exfiltration.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/31/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-8788 represents a critical flaw in URL parsing mechanisms within Apple's operating systems, specifically affecting iOS versions prior to 13.2 and macOS Catalina versions before 10.15.1. This issue stems from inadequate input validation during URL processing, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system's handling of malformed or specially crafted URLs. The vulnerability falls under the broader category of improper input validation, which is classified as CWE-20 by the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog and represents one of the most prevalent security flaws in software systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows for improper URL processing that can potentially enable data exfiltration from affected systems. When the operating system encounters malformed URLs, the insufficient validation mechanisms fail to properly sanitize or reject these inputs, creating opportunities for attackers to craft malicious URLs that could trigger unintended system behaviors. This flaw operates at the application layer and specifically targets the URL handling components within Apple's web and network processing frameworks. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple parsing errors as it can potentially allow attackers to extract sensitive information from the device or manipulate system behavior through carefully constructed URL parameters.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-8788 is significant for users of affected Apple devices, as it could enable unauthorized data access and potential information disclosure. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability through various delivery methods including malicious websites, phishing emails, or compromised applications that might prompt users to visit specifically crafted URLs. The threat model aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 sub-technique for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1071.004 for "Application Layer Protocol: DNS" when considering how URL manipulation can be used to establish command and control channels or exfiltrate data. The vulnerability essentially allows for covert data transfer mechanisms that could bypass standard security controls.
Apple's remediation for this vulnerability involved implementing enhanced input validation measures within the URL parsing components of iOS 13.2 and macOS Catalina 10.15.1. These improvements specifically target the sanitization of URL inputs and ensure that malformed or suspicious URL structures are properly rejected before any processing occurs. The fix addresses the root cause by strengthening the validation logic that governs how URLs are interpreted and processed within the system. Organizations should prioritize updating affected systems to the patched versions, as the vulnerability represents a potential pathway for sophisticated attacks targeting iOS and macOS environments. The mitigation strategy should include monitoring for any suspicious URL-based activities and ensuring that all endpoints are updated to prevent exploitation of this particular weakness in the URL handling subsystem.