CVE-2020-9972 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A buffer overflow issue in iOS and iPadOS was addressed with improved memory handling, fixing the problem in iOS 14.0 and iPadOS 14.0. Processing a malicious USD file could result in unexpected application termination or arbitrary code execution.

Understanding CVE-2020-9972

This CVE entry describes a critical vulnerability in Apple's iOS and iPadOS that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause application termination by exploiting a buffer overflow issue.

What is CVE-2020-9972?

The CVE-2020-9972 vulnerability is a buffer overflow issue in iOS and iPadOS that could be triggered by processing a specially crafted USD file. Apple addressed this vulnerability by improving memory handling in iOS 14.0 and iPadOS 14.0.

The Impact of CVE-2020-9972

Exploiting this vulnerability could lead to unexpected application termination or enable attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected device, potentially compromising user data and system integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-9972

This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE-2020-9972 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves a buffer overflow issue in iOS and iPadOS, which could be exploited by processing a malicious USD file. Apple addressed this issue by enhancing memory handling in iOS 14.0 and iPadOS 14.0.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: iOS and iPadOS
Vendor: Apple
Versions Affected: Less than 14.0 (unspecified version type)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious USD file to trigger a buffer overflow, potentially leading to unexpected application termination or arbitrary code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect systems from CVE-2020-9972, users and administrators should take immediate and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update affected devices to iOS 14.0 or iPadOS 14.0 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid opening or processing files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update devices with the latest security patches and software updates.
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent malicious file downloads.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Apple promptly to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.