CVE-2016-10574 in apk-parser3
Summary
by MITRE
apk-parser3 is a module to extract Android Manifest info from an APK file. apk-parser3 versions before 0.1.3 download binary resources over HTTP, which leaves it vulnerable to MITM attacks. It may be possible to cause remote code execution (RCE) by swapping out the requested binary with an attacker controlled binary if the attacker is on the network or positioned in between the user and the remote server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/10/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10574 affects the apk-parser3 module, which serves as a tool for extracting Android Manifest information from application package files. This module operates by downloading binary resources from remote servers to facilitate its parsing functionality, creating a potential attack surface that cybersecurity professionals must carefully consider. The specific flaw lies in the module's use of unencrypted HTTP connections for resource retrieval rather than secure HTTPS protocols, which exposes the system to various network-based attacks that can compromise the integrity of the downloaded content.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the module's failure to enforce secure communication channels during the resource downloading process. When apk-parser3 versions prior to 0.1.3 attempt to fetch binary resources, they establish connections using the HTTP protocol without any encryption or authentication mechanisms. This design choice creates a man-in-the-middle attack vector where malicious actors positioned on the network path between the user and the remote server can intercept and manipulate the downloaded files. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-319, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network protocols, and represents a classic example of insecure communication practices that undermine the security of the entire parsing operation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception, as it creates conditions that could lead to remote code execution within the context of the application parsing process. An attacker who successfully positions themselves between the user and the remote server could substitute the legitimate binary resources with malicious counterparts, potentially executing arbitrary code on the target system. This represents a significant security risk because the module operates with elevated privileges during the parsing process, and any compromise of the downloaded resources could result in unauthorized code execution. The attack scenario described in the vulnerability assessment demonstrates how network-based adversaries can exploit the lack of transport layer security to modify critical components, potentially leading to complete system compromise or data exfiltration.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention to update the apk-parser3 module to version 0.1.3 or later, which addresses the insecure HTTP connections by implementing secure HTTPS protocols for resource retrieval. Organizations should also implement network monitoring solutions to detect unusual traffic patterns that might indicate man-in-the-middle attacks, and establish secure baseline configurations that enforce encrypted communication channels for all external resource downloads. Additional protective measures include implementing network segmentation to limit exposure, deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious network activity, and establishing secure software supply chain practices that validate the integrity of all downloaded components through cryptographic checksums or digital signatures. The remediation process should also involve comprehensive security testing to ensure that the updated module functions correctly while maintaining the enhanced security posture required to protect against this specific vulnerability class.