CVE-2020-9955 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2020-9955, an out-of-bounds write vulnerability in Apple products that could lead to arbitrary code execution. Find out affected systems, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
An out-of-bounds write issue in Apple products could lead to arbitrary code execution when processing a maliciously crafted image.
Understanding CVE-2020-9955
What is CVE-2020-9955?
CVE-2020-9955 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability in Apple products that could be exploited by processing a specially crafted image, potentially resulting in arbitrary code execution.
The Impact of CVE-2020-9955
The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code by tricking a user into processing a malicious image on affected Apple devices.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-9955
Vulnerability Description
The issue was addressed by enhancing bounds checking in watchOS 7.0, tvOS 14.0, iOS 14.0, iPadOS 14.0, and macOS Big Sur 11.0.1.
Affected Systems and Versions
- tvOS: Versions less than 14.0
- watchOS: Versions less than 7.0
- iOS and iPadOS: Versions less than 14.0
- macOS: Versions less than 11.0
Exploitation Mechanism
Processing a specially crafted image could trigger the vulnerability, leading to the execution of arbitrary code on the affected devices.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update affected devices to the patched versions: watchOS 7.0, tvOS 14.0, iOS 14.0, iPadOS 14.0, and macOS Big Sur 11.0.1
- Avoid opening or processing images from untrusted or unknown sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update all Apple devices to the latest software versions.
- Exercise caution when downloading or opening files from unfamiliar sources.
Patching and Updates
Apply security patches provided by Apple promptly to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.