CVE-2016-2458 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
The compose functionality in AOSP Mail in Android 5.0.x before 5.0.2, 5.1.x before 5.1.1, and 6.x before 2016-05-01 does not properly restrict attachments, which allows attackers to obtain sensitive information via a crafted application, related to ComposeActivity.java and ComposeActivityEmail.java, aka internal bug 27335139.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/27/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-2458 affects the Android Open Source Project Mail application across multiple Android versions including 5.0.x before 5.0.2, 5.1.x before 5.1.1, and 6.x before the 2016-05-01 security update. This issue resides within the compose functionality of the email client and represents a significant security flaw that could potentially expose sensitive user data. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to bypass normal attachment restrictions through a crafted malicious application, creating a pathway for unauthorized data access.
The technical flaw manifests in the ComposeActivity.java and ComposeActivityEmail.java files where the application fails to properly validate or restrict attachment types during the email composition process. This improper attachment handling creates a vector through which malicious actors can craft specially designed applications that exploit the lack of proper input validation. The vulnerability essentially allows for the inclusion of unauthorized file types or manipulation of existing attachments in a manner that could lead to information disclosure.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk to Android users who rely on the default email client for communication. Attackers could potentially craft applications that, when executed within the context of the email compose functionality, would enable them to access or extract sensitive information from the device. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as it could potentially allow for more sophisticated attacks including privilege escalation or further exploitation of the device's email system. The vulnerability's existence spans multiple Android versions, indicating a widespread exposure that would affect a large user base.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1059 for the execution of malicious code through application manipulation. Organizations and users should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader attack surface that could be leveraged for information gathering or as a stepping stone for more advanced attacks. The vulnerability's classification as an information disclosure issue means that even if direct system compromise is not achieved, sensitive data could still be accessed through the improper attachment handling mechanism.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of affected Android versions to the latest security updates released by Google. Users should ensure their devices are updated to Android 5.0.2, 5.1.1, or the corresponding 2016-05-01 security update for Android 6.x. Additionally, security teams should implement monitoring for suspicious email attachments and consider network-level controls to prevent the execution of potentially malicious applications. Organizations should also review their mobile device management policies to ensure proper security controls are in place for email applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in mobile email clients and highlights the need for continuous security assessment of core mobile applications that handle sensitive user data.