CVE-2026-65346 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE • 08/18/2026
An integer overflow was addressed with improved input validation. This issue is fixed in iOS 26.6.1 and iPadOS 26.6.1, macOS Tahoe 26.6.2. Processing an image may lead to arbitrary code execution.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2026
The vulnerability described involves a critical integer overflow flaw within the image processing subsystem of Apple operating systems, specifically affecting iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. Integer overflows occur when an arithmetic operation results in a value that exceeds the maximum capacity for the assigned data type, causing it to wrap around to a negative number or a significantly smaller positive value. In this context, the flaw likely resides within functions responsible for calculating buffer sizes, memory allocations, or array indices during image decoding and rendering operations. When maliciously crafted images are processed by these systems, the incorrect calculation leads to improper memory management decisions. This discrepancy allows an attacker to write data beyond the bounds of allocated memory buffers, a condition commonly classified under CWE-190: Integer Overflow or Wraparound. The root cause is typically attributed to insufficient input validation and lack of rigorous boundary checks before performing arithmetic operations on user-supplied image metadata or pixel data structures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe due to its potential for arbitrary code execution. By exploiting the memory corruption resulting from the integer overflow, a remote attacker can overwrite critical control flow data such as return addresses or function pointers stored in adjacent memory locations. This manipulation enables the injection and subsequent execution of malicious shellcode within the context of the vulnerable application process. If the affected component runs with elevated privileges, this could lead to full system compromise. The ability to execute arbitrary code means that an attacker can install malware, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised device as a pivot point for further network attacks. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203: Exploitation for Client Execution, where attackers leverage vulnerabilities in client-side applications like image viewers or browsers to gain initial access and establish persistence on target systems.
Mitigation strategies primarily involve applying the vendor-provided software updates that address these flaws through improved input validation mechanisms. For end-users and administrators, it is imperative to update iOS and iPadOS devices to version 26.6.1 and macOS Tahoe systems to version 26.6.2 immediately upon availability. These patches likely include enhanced bounds checking, stricter type casting during arithmetic operations, and potentially the introduction of memory-safe abstractions that prevent direct manipulation of low-level memory structures. Additionally, organizations should enforce strict mobile device management policies to ensure timely patch deployment across all endpoints. From a defensive engineering perspective, implementing compiler-based protections such as stack canaries, Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR), and Data Execution Prevention (DEP) provides additional layers of defense that can mitigate the success rate of exploitation attempts even if similar vulnerabilities exist in unpatched software. Continuous monitoring for anomalous memory access patterns and restricting permissions for applications handling untrusted image inputs further reduces the attack surface associated with this class of vulnerability.