Platform Usage / Address Space Layout Randomization (Aslr) not Enforced

Description

Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR) is a computer security technique enforced by the operating system that randomizes the memory layout of a program. It is used to prevent malicious code from exploiting known address locations of a program in order to cause the program to crash or execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability occurs when ASLR is not enforced by the operating system, and specifically affects iOS and Mobile Apps. In the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) directory, this vulnerability is identified as CVE-2018-4176 and is classified under CWE-200: Information Exposure. According to the OWASP Testing Guide, this vulnerability is caused by the lack of proper randomization of memory layout, making it easier for attackers to predict the memory layout and launch attacks.

Risk

This vulnerability poses a high risk to users, as it allows attackers to easily launch malicious code and access confidential information. Without addressing the vulnerability, attackers could potentially gain access to user data and exploit the system.

Solution

The best way to address this vulnerability is to ensure that ASLR is properly enforced by the operating system. This can be done by enabling the proper settings in the operating system configuration and/or using third-party software. Additionally, it is important to keep systems up-to-date and patched to ensure that any new vulnerabilities are addressed.

Example

The following code example shows a vulnerable iOS application that does not enforce ASLR:

// vulnerable code in the iOS app
int main(int argc, char *argv[]) {
  char *buffer = malloc(500);
  strcpy(buffer, argv[1]);
  return 0;
}

In this example, the application is vulnerable to a buffer overflow attack, since it does not enforce ASLR.