CVE-2020-9838
📋 TL;DR
CVE-2020-9838 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in iOS and iPadOS that could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. This affects users running iOS/iPadOS versions before 13.5. Successful exploitation could lead to complete device compromise.
💻 Affected Systems
- iPhone
- iPad
- iPod touch
📦 What is this software?
Ipados by Apple
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Remote attacker gains full control of the device, allowing data theft, surveillance, ransomware deployment, or use as a botnet node.
Likely Case
Targeted attacks against high-value individuals or organizations to steal sensitive data or install persistent malware.
If Mitigated
Limited impact with proper network segmentation, endpoint protection, and user education about suspicious links/attachments.
🎯 Exploit Status
CVSS 9.8 indicates critical severity with low attack complexity. While no public PoC exists, such vulnerabilities are often weaponized quickly.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: iOS 13.5, iPadOS 13.5
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/HT211168
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update. 2. Download and install iOS 13.5/iPadOS 13.5. 3. Device will restart automatically.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Network segmentation and filtering
allRestrict network access to iOS/iPadOS devices and filter malicious traffic at perimeter.
Disable unnecessary services
allTurn off Bluetooth, AirDrop, and other services when not needed to reduce attack surface.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected devices on separate network segments with strict firewall rules
- Implement mobile device management (MDM) with strict security policies and monitoring
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check iOS/iPadOS version in Settings > General > About > Version. If version is below 13.5, device is vulnerable.Check Version:
Not applicable - check via device Settings interfaceVerify Fix Applied:
Verify version shows 13.5 or higher in Settings > General > About > Version.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual process creation
- Memory access violations
- Crash reports from affected applications
Network Indicators:
- Suspicious network connections from iOS devices
- Unusual outbound traffic patterns
SIEM Query:
source="ios-devices" AND (event_type="crash" OR process="unusual")