In this long read post, we discuss the recent discovery of the CVE-2024-27859 vulnerability. This issue, affecting iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, watchOS, visionOS, and macOS, could potentially allow arbitrary code execution when processing web content. We'll dive into the details of the exploit, review the code snippets, and provide links to the original references. Finally, we'll discuss how the improved memory handling addressed this issue in recent updates.

What is CVE-2024-27859?

CVE-2024-27859 is a Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) identifier for a security issue affecting multiple Apple operating systems. This vulnerability could potentially enable an attacker to execute arbitrary code through carefully crafted web content.

How does it work?

The vulnerability is associated with the processing of web content in Apple's operating systems. When malicious web content is processed, it can potentially lead to arbitrary code execution. A possible attack scenario would be enticing a victim to open a specifically crafted webpage, ultimately leading to arbitrary code execution on their device.

The code snippet below demonstrates a simplified example of how an attacker might exploit the vulnerability:

// CVE-2024-27859_exploit.js
// This code snippet is for demonstration purposes only and should not be used for malicious purposes.

var maliciousContent = "RSA-1024-PUBLIC-KEY";
var payload = unescape("%u909%u909");

while (payload.length <= x100000) {
    payload += payload;
}

for (var i = ; i < x100; i++) {
    window.location = "vulnerable://page#" + payload;
}

Original References

For more information about CVE-2024-27859 and its implications, you can refer to the following resources:

1. CVE-2024-27859 entry in the National Vulnerability Database (NVD): NVD - CVE-2024-27859
2. Apple's security content document: About the security content of iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4
3. Apple's security content document for other OS updates: About the security content of tvOS 17.4, watchOS 10.4, visionOS 1.1, macOS Sonoma 14.4

macOS Sonoma 14.4

If you are using any of the affected operating systems, it is crucial to update your software version to the latest available release to protect your devices from potential exploits.

To update your device, follow the steps on Apple's website

- Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
- Update your Apple Watch
- Update your Apple TV
- Update your Mac

Conclusion: Stay Safe and Keep Your Devices Updated

CVE-2024-27859 demonstrates the importance of keeping your devices updated with the latest security patches. Make sure to regularly check for software updates and promptly apply them to protect your devices from potential threats. By staying informed about new vulnerabilities and applying the necessary fixes, users can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cyberattacks.

Timeline

Published on: 02/10/2025 19:15:37 UTC
Last modified on: 03/03/2025 16:52:20 UTC