CVE-2014-3502 in Cordova
Summary
by MITRE
Apache Cordova Android before 3.5.1 allows remote attackers to open and send data to arbitrary applications via a URL with a crafted URI scheme for an Android intent.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/04/2022
Apache Cordova Android versions prior to 3.5.1 contain a critical security vulnerability that stems from inadequate validation of URI schemes within intent handling mechanisms. This flaw exists in the platform's intent resolution process where the application fails to properly sanitize and validate the scheme portion of incoming URLs before initiating Android intents. The vulnerability specifically affects how Cordova processes external URLs that contain custom URI schemes designed to launch other applications on the Android device. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious URLs that specify arbitrary URI schemes, enabling them to open and communicate with unintended applications installed on the target device. The technical implementation flaw resides in the lack of proper scheme validation and authorization checks within the Cordova Android runtime environment, allowing unauthorized application interactions through the intent system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential data exfiltration and system compromise scenarios. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially access sensitive information from other applications that are not properly secured against intent-based access. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be delivered through web content or malicious applications that leverage the Cordova framework, making it accessible to a broad range of threat actors. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-732: Incorrect Permission Assignment for Critical Resource and falls under ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables arbitrary command execution through intent manipulation. The flaw essentially allows attackers to bypass normal application isolation mechanisms, creating a pathway for privilege escalation and unauthorized data access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected Cordova Android installations to version 3.5.1 or later, which includes proper URI scheme validation and intent handling restrictions. Organizations should implement comprehensive application security testing that includes intent resolution validation and URI scheme sanitization checks. The recommended approach involves configuring proper intent filters and implementing strict scheme validation within the Cordova configuration files, ensuring that only trusted URI schemes can trigger application launches. Additionally, security teams should conduct regular vulnerability assessments of mobile applications built with Cordova to identify and remediate similar intent-based vulnerabilities. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth by filtering suspicious URL patterns, while mobile device management solutions should enforce proper application permissions and intent restrictions. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation in mobile application frameworks and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of cross-platform development tools.