CVE-2023-38599: Addressing A Logic Issue With Improved State Management to Prevent Websites From Tracking Sensitive User Information

Security researchers have discovered a potential vulnerability in various Apple devices, such as Safari 16.6, watchOS 9.6, iOS 15.7.8 and iPadOS 15.7.8, tvOS 16.6, iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6, and macOS Ventura 13.5. This vulnerability, designated as CVE-2023-38599, allows a website to track sensitive user information by exploiting a logic issue within the state management of these devices. Apple has now fixed this security flaw with improved state management, ensuring device users are protected from potential threats.

Code Snippet

The individual code snippet that exposes the vulnerability has not been made public, however, the issue lies in the state management aspect of the affected devices. Below is a code example that demonstrates a potential attack scenario:

function maliciousTrackingFunction() {
  // Code to exploit CVE-2023-38599 vulnerability here...
  checkUserState();

  function checkUserState() {
    const state = getUserState();
    if (state === 'vulnerable') {
      trackSensitiveUserInfo();
    }
  }

  function getUserState() {
    // Code to check user state by exploiting the state management flaw...
  }

  function trackSensitiveUserInfo() {
    // Code used to track sensitive user information...
  }
}

// Executing malicious tracking function after page load:
window.addEventListener('load', maliciousTrackingFunction);

Original References

1. CVE-2023-38599 Summary
2. Apple Security Advisory
3. NVD CVE-2023-38599

Exploit Details

The vulnerability lies in the state management system of several Apple devices, as listed earlier. A malicious website can exploit this flaw to gain access to sensitive user information, such as browsing history, user preferences, or even personal identification data. While the specifics of the vulnerability have not been disclosed to ensure user safety, it is clear that this issue poses a potentially significant risk to users' privacy and security.

Mitigation

Apple has addressed the logic issue in affected devices by improving state management, effectively eliminating the risk of sensitive user information being tracked without consent. Users must update their devices to the latest software versions listed below:

Conclusion

CVE-2023-38599 is a critical vulnerability in multiple Apple devices that could lead to unauthorized tracking of sensitive user information. Users should take the necessary steps to ensure their devices are updated to the latest software versions to protect themselves from this potential threat. With timely updates and awareness, users can stay one step ahead of cyberattacks and maintain their privacy and security.

Timeline

Published on: 07/28/2023 05:15:10 UTC
Last modified on: 08/18/2023 03:15:21 UTC