CVE-2021-1879
Published: November 3, 2021
Official Description
Apple iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS WebKit contain an unspecified vulnerability that allows for universal cross-site scripting (XSS) when processing maliciously crafted web content. This vulnerability could impact HTML parsers that use WebKit, including but not limited to Apple Safari and non-Apple products which rely on WebKit for HTML processing.
CISA KEV Advisory
Apple iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS WebKit Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Vulnerability
Apple iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS WebKit contain an unspecified vulnerability that allows for universal cross-site scripting (XSS) when processing maliciously crafted web content. This vulnerability could impact HTML parsers that use WebKit, including but not limited to Apple Safari and non-Apple products which rely on WebKit for HTML processing.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This high-severity unspecified vulnerability in Apple iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS WebKit allows for universal cross-site scripting (XSS) when processing maliciously crafted web content. Its inclusion in CISA's KEV catalog and an EPSS score of 0.01503 indicate confirmed exploitation and a notable likelihood of future exploitation, affecting Apple Safari and other WebKit-reliant products.
This vulnerability is actively being exploited in the wild, confirming its use by attackers. Exploitation occurs when processing maliciously crafted web content.
Apply the latest security updates for Apple iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS. Exercise caution when visiting untrusted websites and ensure all web browsers are kept up to date.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2021-1879 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2021-1879 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (1)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2021-1879 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1