CVE-2022-42848 in tvOS
Summary
by MITRE • 12/15/2022
A logic issue was addressed with improved checks. This issue is fixed in iOS 16.2 and iPadOS 16.2, iOS 15.7.2 and iPadOS 15.7.2, tvOS 16.2. An app may be able to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-42848 represents a critical logic flaw in apple's mobile operating systems that could potentially allow malicious applications to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code with kernel-level permissions. This issue affects multiple versions of ios and iPadOS, specifically those prior to versions 16.2 and 15.7.2 respectively, as well as tvOS 16.2. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the operating system's privilege management framework, creating a pathway for unauthorized code execution at the most privileged level of the system.
The technical nature of this flaw falls under the category of privilege escalation vulnerabilities, which are systematically categorized under CWE-269 in the Common Weakness Enumeration framework. This classification indicates that the vulnerability involves improper handling of privileges within the system, allowing an attacker to gain access to resources or capabilities that should be restricted. The issue manifests as a logic flaw that fails to properly validate the integrity of code execution contexts, enabling an application to bypass normal security boundaries and operate with elevated privileges typically reserved for system-level processes.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses a severe threat to device security and user data integrity. When exploited, the vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, effectively granting complete control over the device's operating system. This level of access enables attackers to modify system files, install malicious software, access encrypted data, and potentially compromise the entire device. The implications extend beyond individual device security to potential network-wide vulnerabilities, especially in enterprise environments where multiple devices may be interconnected. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects widely deployed mobile operating systems that users rely on for both personal and professional communications.
The mitigation strategy for this vulnerability requires immediate deployment of the security patches released by apple in versions 16.2 and 15.7.2 for respective operating systems. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected devices to ensure protection against exploitation attempts. System administrators should implement comprehensive monitoring to detect any suspicious activities that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on unusual code execution patterns or unauthorized privilege escalations. The remediation process should also include reviewing application permissions and ensuring that only trusted applications are installed on affected devices. According to the mitre ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability would be classified under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the use of legitimate system tools and processes to gain elevated access, making it particularly challenging to detect through traditional security measures. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any potential exploitation attempts and to maintain a robust defense posture against similar logic flaws in the future.