CVE-2020-9872 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

An out-of-bounds write issue in Apple products could lead to arbitrary code execution when processing a maliciously crafted image.

Understanding CVE-2020-9872

What is CVE-2020-9872?

CVE-2020-9872 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability in various Apple products that could be exploited by processing a specially crafted image.

The Impact of CVE-2020-9872

The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on affected devices, posing a significant security risk.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-9872

Vulnerability Description

The issue was addressed by enhancing bounds checking in iOS 13.6 and iPadOS 13.6, macOS Catalina 10.15.6, tvOS 13.4.8, watchOS 6.2.8, iTunes 12.10.8 for Windows, iCloud for Windows 11.3, and iCloud for Windows 7.20.

Affected Systems and Versions

iOS: Less than iOS 13.6 and iPadOS 13.6
macOS: Less than macOS Catalina 10.15.6
tvOS: Less than tvOS 13.4.8
watchOS: Less than watchOS 6.2.8
iTunes for Windows: Less than iTunes 12.10.8
iCloud for Windows: Less than iCloud for Windows 11.3
iCloud for Windows (Legacy): Less than iCloud for Windows 7.20

Exploitation Mechanism

Processing a maliciously crafted image triggers the vulnerability, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update affected Apple products to the specified versions to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid opening or processing images from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update all software and operating systems to the latest versions.
Implement security best practices to prevent and detect malicious activities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Apple to address the CVE-2020-9872 vulnerability.