CVE-2020-9852 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

An integer overflow vulnerability affecting Apple's iOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS versions has been identified and fixed in the latest updates.

Understanding CVE-2020-9852

What is CVE-2020-9852?

An integer overflow issue was resolved through enhanced input validation in iOS 13.5 and iPadOS 13.5, macOS Catalina 10.15.5, tvOS 13.4.5, and watchOS 6.2.5. This vulnerability could allow a malicious application to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2020-9852

This vulnerability could be exploited by a malicious application to run arbitrary code with elevated kernel privileges on affected Apple devices.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-9852

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stemmed from an integer overflow that was mitigated by improving input validation in the affected Apple operating systems.

Affected Systems and Versions

iOS: Less than iOS 13.5 and iPadOS 13.5
macOS: Less than macOS Catalina 10.15.5
tvOS: Less than tvOS 13.4.5
watchOS: Less than watchOS 6.2.5

Exploitation Mechanism

A malicious application could exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges on the impacted Apple devices.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update affected devices to the latest iOS 13.5 and iPadOS 13.5, macOS Catalina 10.15.5, tvOS 13.4.5, and watchOS 6.2.5 versions.
Avoid downloading and running untrusted applications on Apple devices.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update all Apple devices to the latest software versions.
Exercise caution while installing applications from unknown sources.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly as released by Apple to safeguard against known vulnerabilities.