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CVE-2020-9916 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Learn about CVE-2020-9916, a URL Unicode encoding issue in Apple products that could allow attackers to conceal URL destinations. Find out affected systems, impacts, and mitigation steps.

A URL Unicode encoding issue was addressed with improved state management in various Apple products, potentially allowing a malicious attacker to conceal the destination of a URL.

Understanding CVE-2020-9916

This CVE affects multiple Apple products, including iOS, tvOS, watchOS, Safari, iTunes for Windows, iCloud for Windows, and iCloud for Windows (Legacy).

What is CVE-2020-9916?

CVE-2020-9916 is a vulnerability related to URL Unicode encoding that could enable a malicious actor to hide the true destination of a URL.

The Impact of CVE-2020-9916

The vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to deceive users about the actual destination of a URL, potentially leading to phishing attacks or other malicious activities.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-9916

This section provides more in-depth technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The issue was fixed in iOS 13.6 and iPadOS 13.6, tvOS 13.4.8, watchOS 6.2.8, Safari 13.1.2, iTunes 12.10.8 for Windows, iCloud for Windows 11.3, and iCloud for Windows 7.20. It involves a URL Unicode encoding problem that was mitigated through enhanced state management.

Affected Systems and Versions

        iOS versions less than 13.6 and iPadOS versions less than 13.6
        tvOS versions less than 13.4.8
        watchOS versions less than 6.2.8
        Safari versions less than 13.1.2
        iTunes for Windows versions less than 12.10.8
        iCloud for Windows versions less than 11.3
        iCloud for Windows (Legacy) versions less than 7.20

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could allow a malicious actor to manipulate URL Unicode encoding to mislead users about the actual destination of a URL.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-9916 and enhance security, follow these steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

        Update affected Apple products to the fixed versions mentioned above.
        Exercise caution when clicking on URLs, especially from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

        Regularly update all software and applications to the latest versions.
        Educate users about the risks of clicking on unfamiliar URLs.

Patching and Updates

        Apply patches and updates provided by Apple promptly to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.

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