CVE-2014-9282 in Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the Speed Root Explorer application before 3.2 for Android and the Speed Explorer application before 2.2 for Android allows remote attackers to write to arbitrary files via a crafted filename.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/14/2018
The CVE-2014-9282 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting mobile applications on the Android platform. This vulnerability specifically impacts the Speed Root Explorer application versions prior to 3.2 and the Speed Explorer application versions prior to 2.2, creating a significant security risk for users who employ these tools for file management on rooted Android devices. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the application's file handling routines, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file paths through specially crafted filenames.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper sanitization in the application's file write operations. When users attempt to perform file operations within the application, the software fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied filenames before executing write operations. This omission creates an opportunity for attackers to craft malicious filenames that contain directory traversal sequences such as "../" or similar path manipulation patterns. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited remotely, meaning attackers do not require physical access to the device to exploit this flaw. The issue is classified under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it enables attackers to write arbitrary files to locations on the device filesystem that should normally be protected or restricted. This capability allows for potentially malicious file injection, system modification, or even the installation of persistent backdoors. On rooted Android devices, where the application has elevated privileges, the consequences are particularly severe as attackers can potentially compromise the entire system integrity. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through remote means, making it possible for attackers to compromise devices without requiring direct physical access or user interaction beyond the initial exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate application updates to versions that properly implement input validation and sanitization. Organizations and individuals should ensure that all instances of these applications are updated to versions 3.2 or later for Speed Root Explorer and 2.2 or later for Speed Explorer. The implementation of proper path validation techniques, including canonicalization of file paths, strict input filtering, and the use of allowlists for acceptable filenames, should be enforced. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing mobile device management policies that enforce application updates and monitor for potentially malicious file operations. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter, as attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code through file manipulation. The remediation process should also include security awareness training for users who might inadvertently download or use vulnerable versions of these applications.