CVE-2014-0804 in Security File Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the CGENE Security File Manager Pro application 1.0.6 and earlier, and Security File Manager Trial application 1.0.6 and earlier, for Android allows attackers to overwrite or create arbitrary files via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/19/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0804 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within mobile security applications designed for android platforms. This weakness affects specific versions of CGENE Security File Manager Pro and Security File Manager Trial applications, all versions 1.0.6 and earlier, creating a significant risk for users who rely on these tools for file management and security operations on their mobile devices. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before processing file system operations, allowing malicious actors to exploit the application's file handling capabilities.
The technical implementation of this directory traversal vulnerability enables attackers to manipulate file system paths through unspecified vectors that bypass normal access controls and validation checks. This flaw permits unauthorized file operations including both file creation and overwriting activities, effectively granting attackers the ability to modify or replace critical application files, system resources, or user data stored within the device's file system. The vulnerability operates at the core of file management operations where user inputs are processed without proper sanitization, creating a pathway for attackers to navigate beyond intended file system boundaries and access restricted directories or files.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents severe implications for mobile device security and user privacy. Attackers can leverage this weakness to install malicious files, overwrite legitimate applications or system components, potentially leading to complete device compromise or unauthorized data access. The impact extends beyond individual user devices as compromised applications could serve as entry points for broader network infiltration or data exfiltration operations. Security researchers have classified this issue under CWE-22, which specifically addresses directory traversal vulnerabilities in software applications, highlighting the fundamental flaw in path validation mechanisms that allows unauthorized access to file system resources.
The exploitation of CVE-2014-0804 aligns with several tactics described in the mitre ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms. Attackers can use this vulnerability to establish persistent access through file modification or creation activities, potentially installing backdoors or rootkits that maintain access even after device reboots. The vulnerability also enables data manipulation and confidentiality breaches, as attackers can overwrite or access sensitive files that should remain protected. Organizations implementing mobile device management strategies must consider this vulnerability when assessing risk profiles for mobile security applications, as it represents a fundamental failure in input validation and access control implementation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve immediate application updates to versions that address the directory traversal flaw through proper input sanitization and path validation. System administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of all mobile security applications within their environments to identify potentially affected versions. Additionally, implementing network-based controls such as application whitelisting or mobile device management policies can help prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security auditing of mobile applications, including code reviews focused on file system operations and input validation mechanisms, remains crucial for identifying similar vulnerabilities. The remediation process should also include user education about the risks of installing untrusted applications and the importance of keeping security software updated to protect against known vulnerabilities.