CVE-2010-3827

Vulnerability

A signature validation issue exists in the handling of configuration profiles in Apple iOS versions prior to 4.2. The vulnerability affects iOS 2.0 through 4.1 for iPhone 3G and later, iOS 2.1 through 4.1 for iPod touch (2nd generation) and later, and iOS 3.2 through 3.2.2 for iPad [1]. The configuration installation utility does not properly validate signatures before displaying a profile, allowing a maliciously crafted configuration profile to appear as if it has a valid signature [1].

Exploitation

An attacker can craft a configuration profile with an invalid signature that the installation utility will incorrectly display as valid [1]. The attacker must then deliver the profile to the target user via arbitrary vectors, such as email, a malicious website, or other distribution methods [1]. No special network position or authentication is required beyond the ability to present the profile to the user for installation.

Impact

If a user is misled into installing a maliciously crafted configuration profile, the attacker could potentially configure the device in ways the user did not intend, such as altering network settings, VPN configurations, or other device policies [1]. The impact depends on the profile's payload, which could range from information disclosure to device compromise, though the specific capabilities are not detailed in the available references [1].

Mitigation

Apple addressed this issue in iOS 4.2, released on November 22, 2010 [1]. Users should update their devices to iOS 4.2 or later using iTunes. No workarounds are available for earlier versions point [1]. The vulnerability is not known to be listed in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog.