CVE-2022-42856 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting various Apple systems, including Safari, iPadOS, iPhone OS, macOS, and tvOS. This type of confusion issue, which was addressed with improved state handling, could lead to arbitrary code execution when processing malicious web content. It has been reported that this vulnerability may have been actively exploited in earlier versions of iOS. The issue was discovered by Clément Lecigne of Google's Threat Analysis Group and has since been addressed in security updates for the affected systems.

How do I know if I'm affected?

If you're using an Apple device, you might be affected by the vulnerability if you're running older versions of Safari, tvOS, macOS, iOS, or iPadOS. Specifically, you could be at risk if you're using Safari versions before 16.2, tvOS before 16.2, macOS before 13.1, iOS before 15.7.2, iPadOS before 15.7.2, or iOS 16.0 to 16.1.1. This vulnerability could lead to arbitrary code execution when processing malicious web content. Apple has reported that it may have been actively exploited in versions of iOS released before iOS 15.1.

What should I do if I'm affected?

If you're affected by the vulnerability, it's crucial to update your Apple device immediately. To do this, go to Settings, then General, and tap on Software Update. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it. Keeping your device updated ensures you're protected from potential security threats.

Is this in CISA’s Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog?

Yes, CVE-2022-42856 is in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog. The vulnerability, named the Apple iOS Type Confusion Vulnerability, was added on December 14, 2022, with a due date of January 4, 2023. To address this vulnerability, users should apply updates according to Apple's instructions.

Weakness enumeration

The weakness enumeration for this vulnerability is categorized as CWE-843, which involves a type confusion issue, which occurs when a resource is accessed using an incompatible type. This can lead to arbitrary code execution when processing malicious web content.

For more details

CVE-2022-42856 is a significant vulnerability affecting various Apple systems, with potential consequences including arbitrary code execution. Users can gain a deeper understanding of the vulnerability's description, severity, technical details, and known affected software configurations. For a comprehensive overview visit the NVD page or the links below.

• Full Disclosure: APPLE-SA-2022-12-13-2 iOS 15.7.2 and iPadOS 15.7.2

• oss-security - WebKitGTK and WPE WebKit Security Advisory WSA-2022-0011

• WebKitGTK+: Multiple Vulnerabilities (GLSA 202305-32) — Gentoo security

• About the security content of iOS 16.1.2 - Apple Support