CVE-2022-42856 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE • 12/15/2022
A type confusion issue was addressed with improved state handling. This issue is fixed in Safari 16.2, tvOS 16.2, macOS Ventura 13.1, iOS 15.7.2 and iPadOS 15.7.2, iOS 16.1.2. Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to arbitrary code execution. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited against versions of iOS released before iOS 15.1..
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-42856 represents a critical type confusion flaw within Apple's web rendering engine that affects multiple operating systems including iOS, macOS, and tvOS. This issue falls under the category of memory safety vulnerabilities and is particularly concerning due to its potential for remote code execution when users encounter maliciously crafted web content. The vulnerability stems from improper state handling within the browser's JavaScript engine, specifically in how it manages object types during runtime operations. Type confusion vulnerabilities occur when a program incorrectly handles objects of different types, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the browser's failure to properly validate object types during dynamic operations, creating a scenario where an attacker can manipulate memory layout through carefully crafted web content. This flaw allows an attacker to manipulate the program's execution flow by exploiting the underlying type system, potentially leading to privilege escalation and complete system compromise. The issue is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through standard web browsing activities without requiring any special user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. According to industry standards, this vulnerability maps to CWE-466 which specifically addresses the use of incorrect types in operations, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 which covers exploitation for privilege escalation through browser vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple exploitation as it affects a broad range of Apple devices and operating systems, including iOS versions prior to 15.1 and their respective macOS and tvOS counterparts. The fact that Apple has acknowledged active exploitation attempts against older iOS versions demonstrates the real-world threat this vulnerability presents to organizations and individual users. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to devices, potentially leading to data theft, surveillance, or further network infiltration. The widespread nature of affected platforms means that organizations must prioritize immediate patching of all impacted systems, particularly those running legacy iOS versions where the vulnerability remains unpatched.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate deployment of the security updates provided by Apple, specifically targeting Safari 16.2, tvOS 16.2, macOS Ventura 13.1, and the respective iOS/iPadOS versions mentioned in the patch notes. Organizations should implement network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts and establish incident response procedures to address any confirmed breaches. Additionally, users should be educated about the importance of keeping their devices updated and avoiding suspicious web content. The vulnerability highlights the critical need for continuous security monitoring and rapid patch deployment, particularly for browser-based exploits that can be weaponized for active attacks. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls and content filtering solutions as additional protective layers against similar vulnerabilities in the future.