CVE-2022-32830 - Out-of-Bounds Read Vulnerability in Image Processing: Improved Bounds Checking and User Information Disclosure

A recent security vulnerability has been identified as CVE-2022-32830, affecting various Apple devices' operating systems. This vulnerability is related to an out-of-bounds read issue in image processing. When processing a specially crafted malicious image, this vulnerability could potentially lead to disclosure of user information.

In this post, we will deep dive into the details of this vulnerability, including code snippets, links to original references, and exploit details. Additionally, we will discuss the affected components and potential mitigation options.

Vulnerability Details

The vulnerability CVE-2022-32830 was announced and characterized as an out-of-bounds read issue that has been addressed with improved bounds checking. Specifically, this issue is fixed in the recent updates, including tvOS 15.6, iOS 15.6, and iPadOS 15.6.

When processing a maliciously crafted image, the affected image processing software doesn't properly check the image's boundaries, leading to incorrect memory access. This out-of-bounds memory access may result in the disclosure of sensitive user information, such as stored user data or passwords.

An example code snippet that demonstrates the vulnerability could look like the following

unsigned char *process_image(unsigned char *input_data, int width, int height)
{
    int i, j;

    unsigned char *output_data = malloc(width * height);

    for (i = ; i < height; i++)
    {
        for (j = ; j < width; j++)
        {
            int out_of_bounds_index = i * width + j + 1;
            output_data[out_of_bounds_index] = input_data[out_of_bounds_index];
        }
    }

    return output_data;
}

In the code above, the out-of-bounds read issue occurs when indexing the out_of_bounds_index in both the input and output data.

You can find more details and the original reference for this vulnerability at the following links

1. Apple Security Advisory for iOS 15.6, iPadOS 15.6, and tvOS 15.6
2. CVE-2022-32830 on the National Vulnerability Database
3. MITRE CVE Dictionary Entry for CVE-2022-32830

Exploit Details

While there's no publicly available exploit code for this vulnerability, a potential attacker could craft a malicious image file designed to trigger the out-of-bounds read issue. The attacker could then deliver the malicious image file to the victim via email, instant messaging, or other means.

Once the victim opens the image on an affected device, the malicious image could potentially trigger the vulnerability, leading to the disclosure of sensitive user information. Depending on the nature of the disclosed information, this could be further exploited to gain unauthorized access to user accounts or other private data.

Mitigation

To protect your Apple devices from this vulnerability, you should update your devices to the latest available software version (tvOS 15.6, iOS 15.6, or iPadOS 15.6). Additionally, it is crucial to be cautious when opening image files, particularly from unknown or untrusted sources. Regularly backing up your data and using up-to-date security solutions can also help minimize potential risks.

Conclusion

The CVE-2022-32830 vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper bounds checking and the potential for user information disclosure in seemingly innocuous everyday tasks, such as processing image files. Updating your software to the latest version and remaining vigilant when interacting with files from unfamiliar sources are essential practices to keep your devices and data secure.

Timeline

Published on: 02/27/2023 20:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 03/07/2023 20:38:00 UTC