External risk intelligence

Apple iOS WebKit Code Execution Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2016-4657

A WebKit vulnerability in Apple iOS can allow remote attackers to execute code or cause denial of service. This impacts organizations by enabling unauthorized code execution and service disruption. The realistic business risk involves potential data compromise and operational downtime on affected devices.

3Halo Surface Signal

Out-of-bounds Write

Apple Iphone Os

before 9.3.5

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2016-4657

The vulnerability resides in WebKit, the engine used by web browsers. Exploitation requires a user to interact by navigating to a malicious website. Because it relies on active user interaction rather than being a service that is automatically reachable over the network without user participation, it is categorized as possible reachability.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

Apple iOS, specifically the WebKit component, contains a vulnerability that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service. This flaw stems from a memory corruption issue within the WebKit rendering engine. The potential business impact includes unauthorized code execution and service disruption on affected systems.

  • Vulnerable component: WebKit
  • Core weakness: Memory corruption
  • Main business impact: Arbitrary code execution and denial-of-service

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability in WebKit, used by web browsers, allows attackers to compromise devices. Exploitation occurs when a user visits a specially crafted website. This can lead to the execution of arbitrary code or a denial of service, impacting device functionality and data integrity. The attack leverages a memory corruption flaw within the WebKit rendering engine.

  • Exposure condition: Malicious website visited.
  • Attacker starting point: Remote.
  • Trigger and result: Memory corruption, arbitrary code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability impacts Apple iOS devices using WebKit, the technology behind Safari and other applications that display web content. Attackers can exploit this by luring users to a malicious website, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code or denial of service. The risk to organizations lies in the compromise of affected devices, which could result in data breaches or disruption of services.

  • Likely attacker skill level: Advanced
  • Required access or conditions: User visits malicious website
  • Business risk or urgency: High

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability in WebKit could allow remote attackers to execute code or cause a denial of service through a crafted website. Organizations should prioritize identifying and mitigating potential exposure to protect systems and data from risk. The risk of exploitation, particularly when combined with other known vulnerabilities, warrants careful attention and a structured response.

  • Identify affected devices.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate risk.
  • Fix, verify, and monitor.

Frequently asked questions

What is Apple's WebKit and its role in iOS?

WebKit is the browser engine powering Safari on Apple devices. It's essential for rendering web content within browsers and other apps, making it a critical component for displaying internet data.

How does CVE-2016-4657 exploit WebKit's memory corruption?

CVE-2016-4657 is a memory corruption vulnerability in WebKit. Attackers can leverage this by directing users to a malicious website, which can trigger code execution or cause a device to crash.

What is the weakness class for CVE-2016-4657?

The weakness class for CVE-2016-4657 is CWE-787, which relates to improper neutralization of data. This often leads to buffer overflows or other memory corruption issues.

What is the relevance of CVE-2016-4657 as per Halo Surface Signal?

Halo classifies this CVE as having 'Possible' reachability. This is because exploitation requires a user to actively navigate to a malicious website, rather than being automatically exposed over the network without user interaction.

What are practical steps to address this WebKit vulnerability?

To address this, identify affected Apple devices, reduce exposure by limiting access to untrusted websites, and apply vendor-provided updates. Verification and ongoing monitoring are also recommended to ensure systems remain secure.

References