CVE-2021-30869:Type Confusion Vulnerability in Apple Operating Systems Allowing Kernel Privilege Escalation (CVE-2021-30869)

splash
Back

Description Preview

A type confusion vulnerability (CWE-843) was identified in multiple Apple operating systems that could allow a malicious application to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. Apple has confirmed that this vulnerability was actively exploited in the wild. The issue stemmed from improper state handling in the kernel, which has been addressed with improved state handling mechanisms in the security updates.

Overview

CVE-2021-30869 is a critical type confusion vulnerability affecting multiple Apple operating systems including iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. This vulnerability allows malicious applications to potentially execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, effectively giving attackers complete control over affected devices. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as Apple acknowledged that it was actively exploited in the wild before patches were released. Type confusion vulnerabilities occur when a program accesses a resource using an incompatible type, which can lead to out-of-bounds memory access and code execution.

Remediation

Users should immediately update their devices to the following patched versions:

  • iOS: Update to iOS 12.5.5 or iOS 14.4 or later
  • iPadOS: Update to iPadOS 14.4 or later
  • macOS Big Sur: Update to version 11.2 or later
  • macOS Catalina: Install Security Update 2021-001 or Security Update 2021-006
  • macOS Mojave: Install Security Update 2021-001

To update:

  1. For iOS/iPadOS devices: Go to Settings > General > Software Update
  2. For macOS devices: Go to System Preferences > Software Update
  3. Install the available updates and restart your device when prompted

References

  1. Apple Security Advisory for iOS 14.4 and iPadOS 14.4: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212146
  2. Apple Security Advisory for macOS Big Sur 11.2: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212147
  3. Apple Security Advisory for Security Update 2021-006 Catalina: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212824
  4. Apple Security Advisory for iOS 12.5.5: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT212825
  5. Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE-843): Type Confusion: https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/843.html

Early Warning

Armis Early Warning customers received an advanced alert on this vulnerability.

Armis Alert Date
Sep 24, 2021
CISA KEV Date
Nov 3, 2021
40days early
Learn More

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  2. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  3. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  4. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  5. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  6. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  7. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  8. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  9. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  10. Utilities
    Utilities
  11. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  12. Information
    Information
  13. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  14. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  15. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  16. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  17. Mining
    Mining
  18. Construction
    Construction
  19. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

Let's talk!

background
Armis Vulnerability Intelligence Database