CVE-2019-7290
📋 TL;DR
CVE-2019-7290 is a sandbox escape vulnerability in iOS Shortcuts app that allows a malicious sandboxed process to bypass security restrictions. This affects iOS devices running vulnerable versions of Shortcuts. Attackers could potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
💻 Affected Systems
- iOS Shortcuts app
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete device compromise allowing installation of malware, data theft, and persistent access to sensitive information and device functions.
Likely Case
Limited data exfiltration from sandboxed apps, potential for privilege escalation in targeted attacks.
If Mitigated
Minimal impact if device is fully patched and running only trusted apps from official App Store.
🎯 Exploit Status
Requires user to install and execute malicious app. No known public exploits, but Apple considered it serious enough for immediate patch.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Shortcuts 2.1.3
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/HT209522
Restart Required: No
Instructions:
1. Open App Store on iOS device. 2. Tap your profile icon. 3. Scroll to find Shortcuts app. 4. Tap 'Update' if available. 5. Alternatively, update iOS to latest version which includes patched Shortcuts.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable Shortcuts app
iosRemove or disable Shortcuts app to eliminate attack surface
Long press Shortcuts app icon > Remove App > Delete App
Restrict app installations
iosOnly allow app installations from trusted sources
Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > iTunes & App Store Purchases > set to 'Don't Allow'
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Restrict device to only essential, trusted apps from official App Store
- Implement mobile device management (MDM) to control app installations and monitor for suspicious activity
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check Shortcuts app version: Open Shortcuts > Tap ... menu > About. If version is earlier than 2.1.3, device is vulnerable.Check Version:
Not applicable - check via iOS app interface as describedVerify Fix Applied:
Confirm Shortcuts app version is 2.1.3 or later using same method as above.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual Shortcuts app activity
- Sandbox violation logs in iOS system logs
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound connections from iOS device following app installation
SIEM Query:
Not applicable - primarily local iOS device logs would need to be monitored via MDM