CVE-2022-42800 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 11/02/2022
This issue was addressed with improved checks. This issue is fixed in iOS 15.7.1 and iPadOS 15.7.1, macOS Ventura 13, watchOS 9.1, iOS 16.1 and iPadOS 16, macOS Monterey 12.6.1, macOS Big Sur 11.7.1. A user may be able to cause unexpected app termination or arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/22/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical security flaw that existed in multiple Apple operating systems including iOS 15.7 and earlier versions, iPadOS 15.7 and earlier versions, macOS Big Sur 11.7 and earlier versions, and macOS Monterey 12.6 and earlier versions. The issue stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the system's application processing frameworks, creating potential entry points for malicious actors to exploit. The vulnerability was specifically addressed through enhanced validation checks that were implemented in the security patches released as part of the aforementioned system updates.
The technical nature of this vulnerability allows for two primary attack vectors that directly impact system stability and security. The first vector enables unexpected application termination, which can be leveraged to create denial of service conditions where legitimate applications may crash or become unresponsive. The second and more concerning vector permits arbitrary code execution, which provides attackers with the capability to run malicious code with the privileges of the affected application. This arbitrary code execution vulnerability aligns with common attack patterns documented in the attack framework, particularly those involving privilege escalation and code injection techniques. The vulnerability's classification corresponds to CWE-121, which deals with stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which addresses heap-based buffer overflow conditions, though the exact implementation may vary depending on the specific system components involved.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple application instability to encompass broader security implications for affected systems. Users running vulnerable versions of Apple's operating systems face potential exposure to malicious actors who could exploit these conditions to gain unauthorized access to device resources, execute harmful software, or disrupt normal system operations. The vulnerability affects a wide range of devices including iPhones, iPads, Mac computers, and Apple Watch devices, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where multiple devices may be simultaneously vulnerable. Organizations relying on these systems for business operations could experience service disruptions, data integrity issues, and potential security breaches that could compromise sensitive information.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate deployment of the security updates released by Apple, specifically targeting the versions mentioned in the fix description. System administrators should prioritize updating iOS 15.7.1 and iPadOS 15.7.1, macOS Ventura 13, watchOS 9.1, iOS 16.1 and iPadOS 16, macOS Monterey 12.6.1, and macOS Big Sur 11.7.1. These updates contain the necessary patches that strengthen input validation mechanisms and address the underlying conditions that allowed for the unexpected termination and arbitrary code execution scenarios. Additionally, organizations should implement network monitoring solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain comprehensive backup procedures to ensure business continuity in case of successful attacks. The remediation process should include verification that all affected systems have successfully applied the patches and that no residual vulnerabilities remain within the updated environments.