CVE-2014-5770 in Web Browser for Android
Summary
by MITRE
The Web Browser for Android (aka explore.web.browser) application 1.2 for Android does not verify X.509 certificates from SSL servers, which allows man-in-the-middle attackers to spoof servers and obtain sensitive information via a crafted certificate.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/31/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-5770 represents a critical security flaw in the Android Web Browser application version 1.2, specifically targeting the SSL/TLS certificate verification mechanism. This weakness falls under the category of inadequate certificate validation, where the application fails to properly authenticate the identity of SSL servers through X.509 certificate examination. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to implement proper certificate chain validation, allowing malicious actors to exploit this gap in security controls.
This technical flaw directly impacts the integrity of secure communications between the Android browser and web servers, creating a pathway for man-in-the-middle attacks where attackers can intercept and manipulate data transmission. The vulnerability enables adversaries to present fraudulent certificates that appear legitimate to the browser, thereby bypassing the fundamental security protocols designed to protect users from unauthorized access to their sensitive information. The lack of certificate verification creates an environment where attackers can establish fake secure connections while users remain unaware of the compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception, as it undermines the entire trust model of secure web communications. Attackers can exploit this weakness to steal session cookies, personal identification information, financial data, and other sensitive user credentials. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where users access banking, email, or corporate networks through the affected browser, as it provides attackers with a straightforward method to establish persistent surveillance and data exfiltration capabilities. This flaw represents a classic example of insufficient cryptographic validation that violates fundamental security principles.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-5770 should focus on immediate application updates and certificate verification enhancements. Organizations should implement mandatory browser updates and ensure that all affected devices receive security patches promptly. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-295, which addresses improper certificate validation, and corresponds to ATT&CK technique T1041, which involves data compression and encryption. Additional protective measures include implementing network-based certificate pinning, deploying SSL inspection solutions, and establishing monitoring protocols to detect anomalous certificate behavior. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation and regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and systems.