CVE-2021-1881 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
CVE-2021-1881 relates to an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in Apple iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, watchOS, and macOS. Find out the impact, affected versions, exploitation, and mitigation steps here.
An out-of-bounds read vulnerability was identified affecting multiple Apple products and versions. The vulnerability could be exploited via a maliciously crafted font file, leading to arbitrary code execution.
Understanding CVE-2021-1881
This CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) pertains to an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in Apple products that could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code by using a specially crafted font file.
What is CVE-2021-1881?
CVE-2021-1881 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability that was resolved through enhanced input validation in various Apple operating systems such as iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, watchOS, and macOS.
The Impact of CVE-2021-1881
The impact of this vulnerability is severe as it could enable threat actors to trigger arbitrary code execution on vulnerable systems, compromising user data and system integrity.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-1881
This section covers specific technical details related to CVE-2021-1881.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability was caused by an out-of-bounds read issue that could occur in response to processing a font file with malicious intent.
Affected Systems and Versions
Apple products including iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, watchOS, and macOS versions less than iOS 14.5, iPadOS 14.5, tvOS 14.5, watchOS 7.4, and macOS Big Sur 11.3 were impacted by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Exploitation of this vulnerability involved crafting a font file in a malicious way to trigger the out-of-bounds read, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code.
Mitigation and Prevention
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-1881, immediate actions need to be taken along with the implementation of long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
It is recommended to update the affected Apple products to the specified versions where the vulnerability has been patched to prevent exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing strong security measures such as regular software updates, monitoring for suspicious activities, and educating users on safe computing practices can help enhance overall system security.
Patching and Updates
Apple has released Security Update 2021-002 for Catalina, Security Update 2021-003 for Mojave, iOS 14.5, iPadOS 14.5, watchOS 7.4, tvOS 14.5, and macOS Big Sur 11.3 to address the CVE-2021-1881 vulnerability.