CVE-2024-54502 in Safari
Summary
by MITRE • 12/12/2024
The issue was addressed with improved checks. This issue is fixed in Safari 18.2, iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2, iPadOS 17.7.6, macOS Sequoia 15.2, tvOS 18.2, visionOS 2.2, watchOS 11.2. Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to an unexpected process crash.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/08/2026
This vulnerability represents a process stability issue within Apple's web rendering engine that could be exploited through maliciously crafted web content. The flaw manifests when Safari processes specially designed web pages that trigger unexpected behavior in the browser's rendering or execution environment. The vulnerability was addressed through enhanced input validation and content processing checks that prevent malformed or malicious content from causing system instability. This issue affects multiple Apple platforms including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, visionOS, and watchOS, indicating a core component shared across Apple's ecosystem. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-20, which covers improper input validation, and CWE-476, which addresses null pointer dereferences that could occur during content processing. The fix implemented in Safari 18.2 and related operating system versions demonstrates Apple's approach to addressing memory management issues that could lead to denial-of-service conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple browser crashes to potentially disrupt user workflows and create security concerns in environments where automated browsing or content delivery is common. When a process crash occurs during web content rendering, it can interrupt user sessions, cause data loss, and potentially provide attackers with opportunities to escalate their control over affected systems. The vulnerability affects the fundamental web browsing experience across Apple's device portfolio, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where consistent browser functionality is critical. The issue represents a classic denial-of-service vector that could be amplified in targeted attacks against specific user groups or organizations. From an attacker perspective, this vulnerability could be leveraged as part of a broader attack chain to establish persistence or to create conditions for more serious exploits.
Security professionals should prioritize patching this vulnerability across all affected Apple platforms to prevent potential exploitation. The mitigation strategy involves updating to the specified versions of each operating system where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement monitoring for unusual browser behavior or crash patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The fix demonstrates Apple's ongoing efforts to improve browser security through enhanced input sanitization and process isolation mechanisms. Security teams should also consider implementing web filtering solutions and user education programs to reduce exposure to malicious web content. This vulnerability highlights the importance of continuous security updates in mobile and desktop environments where browser-based attacks remain a primary threat vector. The resolution of this issue through improved checks aligns with industry best practices for preventing memory corruption vulnerabilities and maintaining system stability in web browsers.