Apple Releases Critical Updates to Address Actively Exploited Zero-Day Vulnerabilities
Apple has rolled out urgent security patches for several of its products, addressing two zero-day vulnerabilities actively exploited in the wild. These flaws, identified as CVE-2024-44308 and CVE-2024-44309, are related to the JavaScriptCore and WebKit components of Apple’s software. The vulnerabilities could lead to arbitrary code execution and cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks when processing malicious web content.
The two vulnerabilities were discovered by Clément Lecigne and Benoît Sevens from Google's Threat Analysis Group (TAG), who reported that they were likely being used in highly targeted attacks, possibly associated with government-backed or mercenary spyware campaigns. Although Apple has not revealed specific details about the exploitation, it has acknowledged that the vulnerabilities may have been actively exploited on Intel-based Mac systems.
What These Vulnerabilities Mean
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CVE-2024-44308 (JavaScriptCore): This flaw could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code when malicious web content is processed by the JavaScriptCore engine. The flaw has been assigned a high severity score of 8.8 (CVSS).
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CVE-2024-44309 (WebKit): This vulnerability in the WebKit framework could lead to a cross-site scripting (XSS) attack when malicious web content is handled by affected devices. This flaw has a moderate severity score of 6.1 (CVSS).
Both issues have been patched with improved input validation and state management, which prevents the flaws from being exploited. As of now, it is believed that these vulnerabilities primarily impacted Intel-based Mac systems, though they may have had wider implications.
Affected Devices and Software Versions
The security patches address vulnerabilities in the following Apple products:
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iOS 18.1.1 and iPadOS 18.1.1 – Devices such as iPhone XS and later, iPad Pro (all generations 13-inch and later), iPad Air 3rd generation and later, and iPad mini 5th generation and later.
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iOS 17.7.2 and iPadOS 17.7.2 – Includes devices like iPhone XS and later, iPad Pro (all versions from the 2nd generation onward), iPad Air 3rd generation and later, and iPad mini 5th generation and later.
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macOS Sequoia 15.1.1 – Available for Macs running macOS Sequoia.
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visionOS 2.1.1 – Apple Vision Pro.
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Safari 18.1.1 – For Macs running macOS Ventura and macOS Sonoma.
Why You Should Update
These vulnerabilities have the potential to allow attackers to compromise devices, steal sensitive information, or gain control over affected systems. Apple’s quick action to address these flaws through timely security updates is crucial in protecting users against potential exploitation. Users are urged to install the latest updates immediately to ensure their devices are protected.
Past Zero-Day Flaws
CVE-2024-44308 and CVE-2024-44309 are the latest in a series of zero-day vulnerabilities that Apple has patched this year. Previously, in 2024, the company addressed other critical flaws, including one demonstrated at the Pwn2Own Vancouver hacking competition. These ongoing vulnerabilities highlight the importance of continuous security updates to mitigate emerging threats.
Conclusion
Apple's latest security patches reinforce the need for users to stay vigilant and ensure their devices are regularly updated. By addressing these zero-day vulnerabilities, Apple has reduced the risk of cyberattacks targeting its ecosystem. It is essential for users to stay informed and take action to protect their personal and professional data from exploitation.
For the latest security updates, make sure to check your device settings and apply the recommended patches as soon as they are available.
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