CVE-2015-7772 in Applican Framework
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the runtime engine in the Newphoria applican framework before 1.13.0 for Android and iOS allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via a crafted URL that triggers WebView anchor attachment in an applican application, a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-7771.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/13/2018
The CVE-2015-7772 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the Newphoria application framework's runtime engine, affecting versions prior to 1.13.0 on both Android and iOS platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the framework's handling of WebView components and demonstrates how seemingly benign URL parameters can be exploited to execute malicious code within the context of legitimate applications. The flaw lies in the improper sanitization of URL inputs that are subsequently processed by the WebView component, creating a pathway for remote attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML content into applications built using this framework.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through a specific attack vector involving crafted URLs that trigger WebView anchor attachment mechanisms within Newphoria applications. When an application processes a maliciously crafted URL containing script tags or HTML content, the runtime engine fails to properly validate or escape these inputs before rendering them within the WebView context. This creates an environment where attacker-controlled content can execute within the application's security boundaries, effectively bypassing the normal sandboxing mechanisms that protect against such attacks. The vulnerability operates at the application layer, leveraging the trust relationship between the WebView component and the host application to execute unauthorized code.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-7772 extends beyond simple data theft or display manipulation, as it can enable full compromise of affected applications and their users' data. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of users, or even escalate privileges within the application context. The vulnerability affects all applications built using the Newphoria framework version 1.12.0 and earlier, potentially exposing millions of users to these attacks. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target users without requiring physical access to devices or network proximity, making the attack surface particularly broad.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as a variant of CWE-79 - Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code through script injection techniques. Organizations using the Newphoria framework should immediately implement patch management procedures to upgrade to version 1.13.0 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms for WebView components. Additional mitigations include implementing Content Security Policy headers, using secure coding practices for URL parameter handling, and conducting regular security assessments of mobile applications to identify similar vulnerabilities in the codebase.