CVE-2023-32439:Type confusion vulnerability in Apple products allows arbitrary code execution through maliciously crafted web content (CVE-2023-32439).

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Description Preview

A type confusion vulnerability (CWE-843) was discovered in Apple products including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and Safari. This vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code by processing specially crafted web content. The issue was addressed with improved type checking mechanisms. Apple has acknowledged reports that this vulnerability was actively exploited in the wild before patches were released, making it a zero-day vulnerability.

Overview

CVE-2023-32439 is a type confusion vulnerability affecting multiple Apple operating systems and Safari. Type confusion vulnerabilities occur when a program accesses a resource using an incompatible type, potentially leading to out-of-bounds memory access. In this case, the vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected devices when users process maliciously crafted web content. The vulnerability is particularly severe because:

  1. It affects multiple Apple products across their ecosystem
  2. It allows for arbitrary code execution
  3. It was actively exploited before patches were available
  4. It can be triggered through web content, making it easily exploitable

Remediation

Users should immediately update to the following patched versions:

  • iOS 16.5.1 or iPadOS 16.5.1
  • iOS 15.7.7 or iPadOS 15.7.7 (for older devices)
  • macOS Ventura 13.4.1
  • Safari 16.5.1

To update:

  • iOS/iPadOS: Go to Settings > General > Software Update
  • macOS: Go to System Preferences > Software Update
  • Safari: Update through the App Store or as part of the macOS update

If immediate updates are not possible, users should:

  • Limit browsing to trusted websites
  • Consider using alternative browsers until patches can be applied
  • Disable JavaScript in Safari for critical environments (may impact functionality)
  • Be cautious about clicking on links from unknown sources

References

  1. Apple Security Updates:

    • iOS and iPadOS 16.5.1: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213814
    • iOS and iPadOS 15.7.7: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213811
    • macOS Ventura 13.4.1: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213816
    • Safari 16.5.1: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213813

  2. Third-Party Advisories:

    • Gentoo Linux Security Advisory: https://security.gentoo.org/glsa/202401-04

  3. CWE Reference:

    • CWE-843: Access of Resource Using Incompatible Type ('Type Confusion')

Early Warning

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

Armis Alert Date
Jun 22, 2023
CISA KEV Date
Jun 23, 2023
1day 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. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  7. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  8. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  9. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  10. Utilities
    Utilities
  11. Information
    Information
  12. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  13. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  14. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  15. Mining
    Mining
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  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.

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