CVE-2014-4496

Vulnerability

The mach_port_kobject interface in the XNU kernel on Apple iOS before 8.1.3 and Apple TV before 7.0.3 does not properly restrict kernel-address and heap-permutation information [1][2]. This allows a malicious application to obtain sensitive memory layout details that weaken address space layout randomization (ASLR).

Exploitation

An attacker must craft a malicious app and convince the user to install and run it on a vulnerable device. Once executed, the app can invoke the mach_port_kobject interface to leak kernel addresses and heap permutation data, which can then be used to predict memory locations for subsequent exploitation steps.

Impact

Successful exploitation provides the attacker with information that defeats ASLR, making it significantly easier to exploit other kernel vulnerabilities. The impact is limited to information disclosure; however, it can be a critical stepping stone for achieving arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation.

Mitigation

Apple addressed the issue in iOS 8.1.3 and Apple TV 7.0.3, released on January 27, 2015 [1][2]. No workarounds are documented. Users should update their devices to the latest available firmware. This CVE is not listed in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog.