The kernel in Apple iOS before 9.3.5 allows attackers to obtain sensitive information from memory via a crafted app. This vulnerability has been classified with a CVSS score of 5.5, indicating a medium severity level. The risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive data, which can lead to further exploitation if left unaddressed. Given the nature of iOS devices and their widespread use, this vulnerability poses a significant risk that organizations must prioritize.
The exploitation status of CVE-2016-4655 indicates that known exploits exist, with at least one public proof of concept (PoC) identified. Organizations using affected versions of iOS are urged to address this vulnerability as part of their immediate patching cycle. The urgency for defenders is critical, as attackers may leverage this vulnerability to access sensitive information.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability. The availability of public exploits further complicates the threat landscape, making it imperative to apply updates without delay.
This vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining an updated security posture. Organizations should regularly review their device management policies and ensure that all devices are running the latest software versions to protect against potential threats.
Vulnerability Details
The kernel in Apple iOS before 9.3.5 allows attackers to obtain sensitive information from memory via a crafted app. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 5.5, categorized as medium severity. The affected product is Apple iOS, with the last modification to the CVE entry occurring on April 21, 2026.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from an issue in the iOS kernel, where memory can be accessed inappropriately by a crafted application. The attack vector is local, necessitating that an attacker have physical access or user interaction to exploit the vulnerability. The attack complexity is low, requiring no privileges but user interaction is necessary, as the crafted app must be executed by the user. This vulnerability has a high confidentiality impact, as sensitive information could be exposed, while integrity and availability impacts are not applicable.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Real-world deployment of this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations, especially those utilizing Apple iOS devices. The potential for attackers to access sensitive data could lead to data breaches, regulatory repercussions, and loss of customer trust. The blast radius is considerable, as the exploitation of this vulnerability may affect any device running the vulnerable versions of iOS, impacting a wide range of users.
Given the CVSS score of 5.5 and its inclusion in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, organizations should assess their exposure and prioritize remediation based on their specific risk tolerance and operational impact.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | Yes |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions include Apple iOS prior to 9.3.5 and the 10.0 version. Organizations should ensure that their devices are updated to mitigate any risk associated with this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize applying the updates recommended by Apple. The latest versions of iOS include security patches that address this vulnerability. In addition to applying updates, organizations should consider implementing configuration hardening and network controls to further reduce exposure to potential attacks. Continuous monitoring for any unusual activity is also recommended.
For comprehensive security validation, organizations may want to engage in penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor logs for indicators of unauthorized access and application behavior anomalies. Behavioral signatures consistent with exploitation attempts should be flagged for further analysis.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2016-4655 represents a significant instance of how vulnerabilities in mobile operating systems can lead to critical data exposure. The existence of known exploits emphasizes the necessity for organizations to maintain an updated security posture. Engaging in penetration testing methodology can provide insights into vulnerabilities that may exist within their systems.
As organizations enhance their security measures, it is crucial to recognize the patterns that vulnerabilities like CVE-2016-4655 represent. This serves as a reminder of the continual evolution in security threats and the need for proactive defenses. Companies may benefit from reviewing their vulnerability management programs to better prepare against such risks.
In summary, organizations must take immediate action in response to CVE-2016-4655, ensuring that they are not only updated but also engaged in continuous security testing to safeguard sensitive information.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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