CVE-2014-4389

Vulnerability

An integer overflow vulnerability exists in the IOKit component of Apple iOS prior to version 8 and Apple TV prior to version 7. The flaw is triggered when an application provides crafted API arguments to IOKit, leading to an integer overflow condition. This affects all devices running iOS versions before 8 and Apple TV 3rd generation and later running software versions before 7 [1][3].

Exploitation

To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker must have the ability to run a malicious application on the target device. The application supplies specially crafted arguments to IOKit API calls, causing an integer overflow. No additional authentication or user interaction beyond launching the app is required. The exact sequence of steps is not publicly detailed, but the overflow can be leveraged to corrupt kernel memory.

Impact

Successful exploitation allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code in a privileged context (kernel space). This grants full control over the device, including the ability to install software, access sensitive data, and bypass security restrictions. The impact is complete compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Mitigation

Apple addressed this vulnerability in iOS 8 (released September 17, 2014) and Apple TV 7 (released September 17, 2014) [1][3]. Users should update their devices to these versions or later. No workarounds are available for unpatched systems. The vulnerability is not listed in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog.