CVE-2021-1851 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover the impact of CVE-2021-1851, a critical logic issue in Apple's iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, watchOS, and macOS systems, enabling arbitrary code execution with kernel privileges. Learn about mitigation steps and security updates.
A logic issue was addressed with improved state management in Apple's operating systems, leading to a critical security flaw. This vulnerability, known as CVE-2021-1851, affects multiple Apple products such as iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, watchOS, and macOS. Attackers could exploit this issue to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges.
Understanding CVE-2021-1851
This section delves into the impact and technical details of the CVE-2021-1851 vulnerability.
What is CVE-2021-1851?
CVE-2021-1851 is a logic issue in Apple products that could allow malicious applications to run arbitrary code with elevated kernel privileges, posing a severe security risk to users.
The Impact of CVE-2021-1851
The vulnerability enables attackers to execute code with kernel-level permissions, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-1851
This section provides a detailed overview of the vulnerability's specifics.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw arises from inadequate state management within Apple's ecosystem, allowing an application to escalate its privileges and execute code in the kernel space.
Affected Systems and Versions
Multiple Apple products are impacted, including iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, watchOS, and macOS versions below iOS 14.5, iPadOS 14.5, tvOS 14.5, watchOS 7.4, and macOS Big Sur 11.3.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by deploying a specially crafted application to trigger the flawed state management, gaining unauthorized kernel access.
Mitigation and Prevention
To safeguard systems from CVE-2021-1851, immediate and long-term security measures must be implemented.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update their Apple devices to the latest versions, specifically iOS 14.5, iPadOS 14.5, tvOS 14.5, watchOS 7.4, or macOS Big Sur 11.3, where the security flaw has been remedied.
Long-Term Security Practices
Maintaining regular software updates, practicing caution while installing third-party applications, and utilizing security software can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Patching and Updates
Apple has released Security Update 2021-002 for Catalina, Security Update 2021-003 for Mojave, and patches for the affected products to address CVE-2021-1851 and enhance the overall security posture.