CVE-2012-2949 in Score M
Summary
by MITRE
The ZTE sync_agent program for Android 2.3.4 on the Score M device uses a hardcoded ztex1609523 password to control access to commands, which allows remote attackers to gain privileges via a crafted application.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/12/2018
The CVE-2012-2949 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the ZTE Score M device's sync_agent program running on Android 2.3.4 operating system. This vulnerability stems from a fundamental design flaw where the system employs a hardcoded password within its codebase, creating an inherent security weakness that persists across all device instances. The hardcoded credential ztex1609523 serves as a backdoor mechanism that grants unauthorized access to privileged commands, effectively bypassing normal authentication procedures. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of hardcoded credentials, which is classified as CWE-798 in the Common Weakness Enumeration framework, representing one of the most dangerous security misconfigurations due to its permanent nature and widespread impact.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a crafted application that leverages the known hardcoded password to authenticate and execute privileged commands on the device. Attackers can remotely manipulate the sync_agent program without requiring legitimate user credentials or authentication mechanisms, enabling them to perform administrative functions that should normally be restricted to authorized personnel. This remote privilege escalation capability allows malicious actors to gain full control over the device's core functions, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system compromise, or further network infiltration. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not need physical access to the device or any form of local network presence, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where devices frequently connect to various networks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of the Android operating system on the affected device. Mobile devices running this vulnerable software become potential entry points for sophisticated attacks, allowing threat actors to establish persistent access, install malware, or exfiltrate sensitive information from the device. The compromise of the sync_agent program specifically targets the device's synchronization capabilities, which often handle critical system functions and may have access to sensitive user data, network configurations, and communication protocols. This vulnerability also demonstrates poor security practices in mobile device development, where hardcoded credentials are used instead of proper authentication mechanisms, making it easier for attackers to identify and exploit weaknesses in the system architecture.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-2949 primarily focus on the immediate remediation of the hardcoded password issue through software updates and patches. Device manufacturers should implement proper authentication mechanisms that do not rely on static credentials, instead utilizing dynamic authentication methods such as challenge-response protocols or secure key management systems. Organizations should also implement network monitoring to detect unauthorized access attempts and establish secure network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers legitimate credentials and T1068 which involves exploit for privilege escalation, highlighting the need for comprehensive defensive measures. Additionally, security professionals should consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can detect and prevent the execution of malicious applications designed to exploit such hardcoded credential vulnerabilities.