CVE-2022-32833 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE • 12/15/2022
An issue existed with the file paths used to store website data. The issue was resolved by improving how website data is stored. This issue is fixed in iOS 16. An unauthorized user may be able to access browsing history.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/02/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-32833 represents a critical security flaw in iOS 16 that stems from improper handling of file paths used for storing website data. This issue falls under the broader category of improper input validation and path handling vulnerabilities, which are commonly classified as CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory. The flaw existed in how the operating system managed the storage locations for web browsing data, creating potential access vectors for unauthorized parties.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allowed for path traversal and improper access control mechanisms within the iOS web browsing framework. When website data was stored, the system failed to properly validate or sanitize the file paths used for data persistence, potentially allowing malicious actors to manipulate these paths to access sensitive browsing history information. This weakness specifically affected the iOS 16 operating system and its associated web browsing components, creating an attack surface that could be exploited by unauthorized users to gain unauthorized access to private browsing data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as browsing history contains sensitive personal information including visited websites, search queries, and potentially confidential communications. The unauthorized access to such information could enable adversaries to conduct surveillance, perform social engineering attacks, or extract sensitive business information. This vulnerability particularly affects users who rely on iOS devices for confidential work activities or personal privacy, as the exposure of browsing patterns could reveal detailed information about their online activities and interests.
Security researchers have classified this vulnerability as a privilege escalation and information disclosure issue that could be leveraged in conjunction with other attack vectors. The fix implemented by Apple in iOS 16 addresses the root cause by improving the validation and sanitization of file paths used for website data storage, ensuring proper access controls and restricted directory access. This remediation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1074.001 - Data Staged, as it prevents unauthorized staging of sensitive data through improper file path handling. Organizations should ensure all iOS devices are updated to iOS 16 or later versions to mitigate this vulnerability, as the fix implements proper input validation and path restriction mechanisms that prevent unauthorized access to stored website data.
The resolution of CVE-2022-32833 demonstrates Apple's approach to addressing information disclosure vulnerabilities in mobile operating systems, emphasizing the importance of secure file path handling and proper access control mechanisms. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of validating all file system operations and implementing proper sandboxing techniques to prevent unauthorized access to user data, particularly in mobile environments where privacy and security are paramount considerations for both personal and enterprise users.