CVE-2023-28208 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2023-28208 affecting Apple products, enabling users to send texts from secondary eSIMs despite primary eSIM settings. Find mitigation steps.
This CVE record pertains to an issue identified as CVE-2023-28208, which has been published on September 6, 2023, by Apple. The vulnerability relates to a logic issue that has been resolved through improved state management in macOS Ventura 13.2, iOS 16.3, and iPadOS 16.3. The vulnerability allows a user to send a text from a secondary eSIM, despite configuring a contact to use a primary eSIM.
Understanding CVE-2023-28208
This section delves into a deeper understanding of the specifics surrounding CVE-2023-28208.
What is CVE-2023-28208?
CVE-2023-28208 involves a logic issue in the affected Apple products, namely macOS and iOS/iPadOS. The vulnerability enables a user to send a text message from a secondary eSIM, even when a contact is configured to use a primary eSIM.
The Impact of CVE-2023-28208
The impact of this vulnerability lies in the potential for users to inadvertently send messages from an unintended source, leading to privacy breaches and communication errors.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-28208
This section provides an overview of the technical aspects associated with CVE-2023-28208.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from a logic issue that results in incorrect state management within the affected Apple products, allowing text messages to be sent from a secondary eSIM despite the primary eSIM configuration.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerable systems include macOS with versions less than 13.2 and iOS/iPadOS with versions less than 16.3.
Exploitation Mechanism
The exploitation of this vulnerability could potentially lead to unauthorized message transmission and confusion regarding the source of communication.
Mitigation and Prevention
In response to CVE-2023-28208, users and organizations can take several steps to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update their systems to macOS Ventura 13.2, iOS 16.3, or iPadOS 16.3 to ensure that the vulnerability is remediated.
Long-Term Security Practices
Practicing good security hygiene, such as regularly updating software and staying informed about potential vulnerabilities, can help enhance overall system security.
Patching and Updates
Apple has released fixes for this vulnerability in macOS Ventura 13.2, iOS 16.3, and iPadOS 16.3. It is crucial for users to promptly install these updates to safeguard their devices from exploitation.