CVE-2016-6542 in iTrack
Summary
by MITRE
The iTrack device tracking ID number, also called "LosserID" in the web API, can be obtained by being in the range of an iTrack device. The tracker ID is the device's BLE MAC address.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2016-6542 represents a significant privacy and security risk associated with iTrack device tracking systems that utilize Bluetooth Low Energy technology. This issue affects devices that employ BLE MAC addresses as unique identifiers within their web API infrastructure, creating a fundamental flaw in how device identification is handled. The vulnerability stems from the fact that BLE MAC addresses, which are inherently static and predictable, are exposed to anyone within wireless range of the device, thereby compromising the confidentiality and integrity of the tracking system.
The technical flaw manifests through the exposure of the LosserID, which serves as the primary tracking identifier within the iTrack system's web API. This identifier directly corresponds to the device's Bluetooth Low Energy MAC address, a hardware-based identifier that remains constant across device reboots and does not change even when the device is moved or reconfigured. The vulnerability exists because the system fails to implement proper access controls or obfuscation mechanisms to protect this critical identifier from unauthorized discovery. The MAC address, when exposed, allows potential attackers to track device movements, identify specific devices, and potentially correlate tracking data across different time periods or locations.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates multiple attack vectors that can be exploited by malicious actors within wireless range of the affected devices. The exposure of BLE MAC addresses enables adversaries to perform tracking activities without authorization, potentially leading to location-based privacy violations, unauthorized surveillance, or even physical security risks. The vulnerability also creates challenges for maintaining device anonymity and can be leveraged for targeted attacks against specific individuals or assets. Security professionals should note that this type of vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and can be classified under CWE-200, which addresses information exposure, and may also relate to CWE-310, concerning cryptographic weaknesses in identification mechanisms.
The implications of this vulnerability extend beyond simple privacy concerns and can be mapped to several ATT&CK framework techniques including T1046 for network service scanning and T1069 for permission groups. Attackers can use the exposed LosserID to perform reconnaissance activities, potentially identifying vulnerable devices in a network or tracking device movements over time. The vulnerability also represents a failure in implementing proper device identification security measures and could be classified under ATT&CK's T1566, which covers credential harvesting through various means. Organizations deploying iTrack devices should consider implementing additional security controls such as MAC address randomization, device access controls, and network segmentation to prevent unauthorized discovery of tracking identifiers. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper identification and authentication mechanisms in IoT devices, where static identifiers can create persistent security weaknesses.
This type of vulnerability highlights the broader challenges associated with IoT device security and the need for robust identification and access control mechanisms. The exposure of BLE MAC addresses as tracking identifiers represents a fundamental design flaw that can be exploited to compromise device privacy and security. Organizations should implement comprehensive security measures including regular vulnerability assessments, proper device management protocols, and adherence to security standards such as those outlined in NIST SP 800-125 for mobile device security. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of considering security implications during the design phase of IoT systems, particularly when dealing with identifiers that may be discoverable through wireless means. Proper implementation of access controls, encryption, and device authentication mechanisms would significantly reduce the risk of exploitation and help maintain the integrity of tracking systems.