A critical security vulnerability, identified as CVE-2023-32400, has recently been discovered in iOS 16.5, iPadOS 16.5, watchOS 9.5, and macOS Ventura 13.4. This vulnerability could potentially be exploited by malicious applications to gain access to sensitive information or perform unauthorized actions. In this post, we will go in-depth into the vulnerability, examine the code snippet that demonstrates the issue, provide links to original references, and discuss the details of the exploit.

Vulnerability details

CVE-2023-32400 is related to improper handling of privacy permissions and entitlements by affected OS versions. It can potentially enable attackers to bypass security measures in place and execute malicious code with elevated privileges. Consequently, this vulnerability can be exploited to compromise user data and the security of devices running these versions of the operating systems.

Let's dive into an example to understand better how this vulnerability can be exploited

# Sample vulnerable code snippet:

@app.route('/private')
@requires_auth
def private_data():
    app_id = get_app_id(get_request())
    app_secret = get_app_secret(get_request())

    if not verify_app(app_id, app_secret):
        abort(401)

    return obtain_private_data(app_id, app_secret)

In the example above, the private_data() function is protected by a decorator @requires_auth, which enforces authentication before accessing the protected resource. However, instead of checking if the authenticated user has sufficient privileges, the code relies on the app's ID and secret to grant access.

This flawed implementation can provide an opportunity for an attacker who has managed to acquire valid app credentials to access the protected resource, even if the original application does not explicitly request permission.

To address the issue, Apple introduced improved checks in their latest versions of iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and macOS Ventura. Users are advised to update their devices to the latest software versions available.

References

For further information and original references related to CVE-2023-32400, please refer to the following links:

1. Apple Security Advisory
2. CVE-2023-32400 - National Vulnerability Database
3. Disclosing the vulnerability responsibly

Exploit details

Exploiting CVE-2023-32400 typically involves crafting a malicious application capable of obtaining valid app credentials of an affected app and leveraging them to impersonate the app and access other resources. The attacker may also combine this vulnerability with other attack vectors like social engineering and phishing attacks to trick users into granting their malicious app the necessary permissions.

Conclusion

CVE-2023-32400 is a critical security vulnerability, and users of iOS 16.5, iPadOS 16.5, watchOS 9.5, and macOS Ventura 13.4 are strongly advised to update their devices to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Apple's prompt response in fixing the vulnerability is commendable, and users should be vigilant about installing updates and thoroughly vetting the apps they download to their devices.

Remember to stay informed and follow best security practices to protect your devices and information.

Timeline

Published on: 06/23/2023 18:15:12 UTC
Last modified on: 09/06/2023 08:15:43 UTC