CVE-2014-6602 in Nokia Asha 501
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Asha OS on the Microsoft Mobile Nokia Asha 501 phone 14.0.4 allows physically proximate attackers to bypass the lock-screen protection mechanism, and read or modify contact information or dial arbitrary telephone numbers, by tapping the SOS Option and then tapping the Green Call Option.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/29/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-6602 represents a critical security flaw in the Microsoft Asha OS operating on Nokia Asha 501 smartphones. This issue stems from a fundamental design weakness in the device's lock-screen protection mechanisms, creating an exploitable pathway for attackers who are physically present with the device. The vulnerability specifically affects version 14.0.4 of the Microsoft Asha OS and demonstrates how inadequate access control measures can compromise user data confidentiality and integrity. The flaw exploits the device's user interface interaction patterns to bypass authentication mechanisms that should protect sensitive information and system functions.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a specific sequence of user interface interactions that manipulate the device's intended security flow. Attackers can initiate the exploit by tapping the SOS Option, which typically serves as an emergency function, followed by immediately tapping the Green Call Option. This particular sequence leverages a race condition or interface bypass that allows unauthorized access to the device's contact information and telephony functions. The vulnerability essentially creates a backdoor path through the lock-screen protection that bypasses the normal authentication requirements needed to access sensitive data or perform system functions. This type of vulnerability is categorized under CWE-284, which addresses improper access control mechanisms in software systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass potential privacy violations and unauthorized communication capabilities. An attacker with physical proximity to the device can not only read contact information but also modify it, potentially leading to social engineering attacks or identity impersonation. The ability to dial arbitrary telephone numbers presents additional risks including unauthorized billing charges, spam calling campaigns, or malicious communication to emergency services. This vulnerability effectively transforms a locked smartphone into an open system for the attacker, compromising the fundamental security principle that devices should remain protected even when locked. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where physical security is compromised or where devices may be left unattended in public spaces.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require both immediate device-level solutions and broader security awareness measures. Device manufacturers should implement immediate firmware updates that address the specific interface interaction sequence that enables the exploit, effectively closing the bypass mechanism. Security patches should focus on strengthening the lock-screen protection logic and ensuring that emergency functions cannot be used to circumvent authentication requirements. Network operators and enterprise security teams should consider implementing additional monitoring for unusual calling patterns that might indicate exploitation of this vulnerability. Organizations should also conduct user awareness training to emphasize the importance of physical security for mobile devices and the potential risks associated with leaving devices unattended in public locations. This vulnerability highlights the need for comprehensive security testing that includes both functional and security aspects of user interfaces, particularly those with emergency or privileged access functions. The issue also demonstrates the importance of following security best practices outlined in frameworks such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and the MITRE ATT&CK matrix, which emphasize the protection of system interfaces and the prevention of privilege escalation through user interaction manipulation.