CVE-2020-3858
📋 TL;DR
CVE-2020-3858 is a memory corruption vulnerability in iOS and iPadOS that allows malicious applications to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. This affects iOS and iPadOS devices running versions before 13.3.1. Successful exploitation gives attackers complete control over the device.
💻 Affected Systems
- iPhone
- iPad
- iPod touch
📦 What is this software?
Ipados by Apple
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete device compromise with kernel-level persistence, data theft, surveillance capabilities, and ability to install backdoors or ransomware.
Likely Case
Targeted attacks against specific users to steal sensitive data, credentials, or install spyware.
If Mitigated
No impact if patched; limited impact if device has strong app vetting and user doesn't install untrusted apps.
🎯 Exploit Status
Requires user to install malicious application; Apple's App Store review provides some protection but not guaranteed.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: iOS 13.3.1 and iPadOS 13.3.1
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/HT210918
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update. 2. Download and install iOS 13.3.1 or iPadOS 13.3.1. 3. Restart device when prompted.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict App Installation
allOnly allow installation from App Store and prevent installation of untrusted enterprise apps
Mobile Device Management Restrictions
allUse MDM to enforce app installation policies and block untrusted sources
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate vulnerable devices from sensitive networks and data
- Implement strict app installation policies and user education about app sources
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check iOS/iPadOS version in Settings > General > About > VersionCheck Version:
Not applicable - check via device settings UIVerify Fix Applied:
Verify version is 13.3.1 or later in Settings > General > About > Version📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual kernel activity
- Unexpected privilege escalation
- Suspicious app behavior logs
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound connections from iOS devices
- Suspicious data exfiltration patterns
SIEM Query:
Not applicable - device-level vulnerability requiring endpoint detection