CVE-2012-0316 in Android Activities
Summary
by MITRE
The Cookpad 1.5.16 and earlier and Cookpad Noseru 1.1.1 and earlier applications for Android do not properly implement the WebView class, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via a crafted application.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0316 affects mobile applications developed by Cookpad, specifically versions 1.5.16 and earlier of the main Cookpad application and version 1.1.1 and earlier of the Cookpad Noseru application for the Android platform. This security flaw resides in the improper implementation of the WebView class, which represents a critical component in Android applications that enables rendering of web content within native applications. The WebView class serves as a bridge between native Android code and web-based content, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to exploit cross-platform vulnerabilities.
The technical implementation flaw stems from insufficient security controls within the WebView configuration, allowing remote attackers to craft malicious applications that can extract sensitive information from the affected applications. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of insecure web view implementation, which is commonly associated with CWE-798, or the use of hard-coded credentials, and CWE-200, or exposure of sensitive information. The vulnerability enables attackers to potentially access user data, session information, or other confidential data that should remain protected within the application's secure boundaries. The insecure WebView implementation creates an attack surface where malicious web content can interact with the application's internal data structures and potentially access sensitive user information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to more severe consequences including user account compromise, data theft, and potential identity fraud. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform man-in-the-middle attacks, intercept sensitive communications, or execute unauthorized actions within the application context. The attack vector involves crafting specially designed applications or web content that exploits the WebView's improper security configurations to gain access to information that should be protected. This vulnerability particularly affects mobile applications where user privacy and data protection are paramount concerns, making it a significant risk for applications handling personal or financial information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-0316 should focus on implementing proper WebView security configurations and ensuring that applications follow secure coding practices for mobile platforms. Organizations should update to patched versions of the affected applications, implement proper input validation, and configure WebView components with appropriate security restrictions. The mitigation approach aligns with the principles outlined in the OWASP Mobile Security Project, particularly the M7 category concerning client-side injection vulnerabilities. Security measures should include disabling unnecessary WebView features, implementing proper content security policies, and ensuring that sensitive data is not exposed through insecure WebView implementations. Additionally, regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in mobile application development practices, as this type of flaw represents a common pattern in mobile application security that can be addressed through proper security awareness and implementation of industry-standard security controls.