T1658_exploitation-for-client-execution

T1658 Exploitation for Client Execution

High-Level Description

Adversaries may exploit software vulnerabilities in client applications to execute code. Vulnerabilities can exist in software due to insecure coding practices that can lead to unanticipated behavior. Adversaries may take advantage of certain vulnerabilities through targeted exploitation for the purpose of arbitrary code execution. Oftentimes the most valuable exploits to an offensive toolkit are those that can be used to obtain code execution on a remote system because they can be used to gain access to that system. Users will expect to see files related to the applications they commonly used to do work, so they are a useful target for exploit research and development because of their high utility.

Adversaries may use device-based zero-click exploits for code execution. These exploits are powerful because there is no user interaction required for code execution.

SMS/iMessage Delivery

SMS and iMessage in iOS are common targets through Drive-By Compromise, Phishing, etc. Adversaries may use embed malicious links, files, etc. in SMS messages or iMessages. Mobile devices may be compromised through one-click exploits, where the victim must interact with a text message, or zero-click exploits, where no user interaction is required.

AirDrop

Unique to iOS, AirDrop is a network protocol that allows iOS users to transfer files between iOS devices. Before patches from Apple were released, on iOS 13.4 and earlier, adversaries may force the Apple Wireless Direct Link (AWDL) interface to activate, then exploit a buffer overflow to gain access to the device and run as root without interaction from the user.

Kill Chain Phase

• Execution (TA0041)

Platforms: Android, iOS

What to Check

• Identify if Exploitation for Client Execution technique is applicable to target mobile environment
• Check Android devices for indicators of Exploitation for Client Execution
• Check iOS devices for indicators of Exploitation for Client Execution
• Verify mitigations are bypassed or absent (2 known mitigations)
• Assess detection coverage (1 detection strategies)

How to Test

Identify Attack Surface

Determine if the target mobile environment is susceptible to Exploitation for Client Execution by examining the target platforms (Android, iOS).

Assess Existing Defenses

Review whether mitigations for T1658 are in place. If defenses are absent or misconfigured, this technique may be exploitable.

Remediation Guide

M1011 User Guidance

Users should be wary of iMessages from unknown senders. Additionally, users should be instructed not to open unrecognized links or other attachments in text messages.

M1001 Security Updates

Security updates frequently contain patches to vulnerabilities.

Detection

Detection of Exploitation for Client Execution

Risk Assessment

CWE Categories

References

• MITRE ATT&CK Mobile - T1658