CVE-2020-9871 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-9871, an out-of-bounds write issue in Apple products that could lead to arbitrary code execution. Find out affected systems, exploitation risks, and mitigation steps.
An out-of-bounds write issue in multiple Apple products could lead to arbitrary code execution when processing a maliciously crafted image.
Understanding CVE-2020-9871
What is CVE-2020-9871?
This CVE addresses an out-of-bounds write issue in various Apple products, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code by manipulating images.
The Impact of CVE-2020-9871
The vulnerability could be exploited by processing a specially crafted image, leading to arbitrary code execution on affected devices.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-9871
Vulnerability Description
The issue involves improved bounds checking to prevent out-of-bounds write problems. It has been fixed in specific versions of iOS, macOS, tvOS, watchOS, iTunes for Windows, and iCloud for Windows.
Affected Systems and Versions
- iOS versions less than 13.6 and iPadOS versions less than 13.6
- macOS Catalina versions less than 10.15.6
- tvOS versions less than 13.4.8
- watchOS versions less than 6.2.8
- iTunes for Windows versions less than 12.10.8
- iCloud for Windows versions less than 11.3
- iCloud for Windows (Legacy) versions less than 7.20
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by tricking users into opening a malicious image file, triggering the out-of-bounds write issue and potentially executing arbitrary code.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update affected Apple products to the latest versions to patch the vulnerability.
- Avoid opening image files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update all software and operating systems to mitigate potential security risks.
Patching and Updates
Apply security updates provided by Apple for the affected products to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.