CVE-2024-27818 - Apple’s Memory Handling Bug That Led to Code Execution on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS

CVE-2024-27818 is a memory handling vulnerability that could let attackers crash apps or even run their own code on iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Fixed in iOS 17.5, iPadOS 17.5, and macOS Sonoma 14.5—update now!
> 👉 Official Apple Security Update Page

What is CVE-2024-27818?

CVE-2024-27818 is a security vulnerability found in how Apple devices handled memory in certain situations. The problem was that improper memory management could allow an attacker to make an app crash or, worse, run harmful code.

Apple’s security notice says:
> *"A memory handling issue was addressed with improved memory handling. This issue is fixed in iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5, macOS Sonoma 14.5. An attacker may be able to cause unexpected app termination or arbitrary code execution."*

What does this mean?
If a hacker finds a way to exploit this bug, they could crash your app, freeze your device, or use a crafted app or file to run their own code with your app’s permissions. This could lead to data theft, spying, or other harm.

How Could It Be Exploited?

Apple keeps vulnerability details tightly controlled, but based on history, this type of bug usually relates to:

Malicious file or app: Attacker sends a file or creates an app that triggers the bad memory use.

2. Trigger bug: When the system handles the file or runs the app, the bug causes the system to execute code that’s not legit.
3. Arbitrary code execution: Now the attacker can do almost anything that app could do—steal data, install malware, etc.

Here’s a simple example of unsafe memory handling (NOT Apple’s real code, but illustrative)

// Vulnerable pseudo-code example
void copyUserInput(char *input) {
    char buffer[100];
    strcpy(buffer, input); // No bounds checking!
}

If input is longer than 100 bytes, this overflows buffer, which can overwrite nearby memory and cause crashes or let attackers inject code.

A fixed version uses safer functions

void copyUserInput(char *input) {
    char buffer[100];
    strncpy(buffer, input, sizeof(buffer) - 1);
    buffer[99] = '\'; // Make sure the buffer is null-terminated
}

This stops buffer overflows and keeps memory safe.

Real World Risks

Let’s say a hacker sends you a malicious file in AirDrop or as an email attachment. On a vulnerable device:

Go to

- *iPhone/iPad*: Settings > General > Software Update

Mac: System Settings > General > Software Update

Look for iOS 17.5, iPadOS 17.5, or macOS Sonoma 14.5.

Conclusion

CVE-2024-27818 is a behind-the-scenes bug that could let attackers do real harm on Apple devices if it’s not fixed. Apple patched it quickly, and you should too. While most users will never experience a hack from this, it shows how even the biggest companies can have security slips—and how fast acting is the best defense.

Stay safe: keep your devices up to date!

*If you want to learn more about memory safety bugs, check out OWASP’s List of Common Vulnerabilities or follow responsible disclosure blogs for more deep dives.*

Timeline

Published on: 05/14/2024 15:13:05 UTC
Last modified on: 12/09/2024 20:21:02 UTC