CVE-2019-6223 Apple iOS and macOS: software flaw
In plain words: A mistake in the software that attackers have found a way to abuse. Depends on the product — see the description and the vendor advisory.
Confirmed exploited by CISA on · US federal patch deadline May 3, 2022
What to do
- Install Apple's security update for iOS and macOS. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships.
- Install system updates the day they come out — most phone zero-days are fixed in a point release.
- Restart your phone every few days; some spyware does not survive a reboot.
- If you are a journalist, activist, lawyer, politician or executive, turn on Lockdown Mode (iPhone) or Advanced Protection (Android).
Who is affected
Could reach you. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.
What's at risk: Messages, photos, location, microphone and camera. The most serious ones are "zero-click": no tap needed from the owner. They are usually used as spyware against a small number of chosen people.
The details
- Official name
- Apple iOS and macOS Group Facetime Vulnerability
- Product
- Apple iOS and macOS
- CISA description
- Apple iOS and macOS Group FaceTime contains an unspecified vulnerability where the call initiator can cause the recipient's Apple device to answer unknowingly or without user interaction.
- Type of flaw
- Software flaw
- Confirmed exploited
- Nov 3, 2021
- US federal patch deadline
- May 3, 2022
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Answering about CVE-2019-6223 ·
Questions about CVE-2019-6223
Is CVE-2019-6223 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2019-6223 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on Nov 3, 2021, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks.
How do I fix CVE-2019-6223?
Install Apple's security update for iOS and macOS. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships. Install system updates the day they come out — most phone zero-days are fixed in a point release.
Am I affected by CVE-2019-6223?
Only if you use Apple iOS and macOS. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.