CVE-2017-12695 in OnStar SOS iOS Client
Summary
by MITRE
An Improper Authentication issue was discovered in General Motors (GM) and Shanghai OnStar (SOS) SOS iOS Client 7.1. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability may allow an attacker to subvert security mechanisms and reset a user account password.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12695 represents a critical improper authentication flaw within the General Motors and Shanghai OnStar SOS iOS client version 7.1. This security weakness resides in the authentication mechanism design and implementation, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to user accounts. The vulnerability specifically affects the password reset functionality, which is a fundamental security control for protecting user credentials and account integrity. The flaw demonstrates a failure in proper authentication validation processes that should have prevented unauthorized password changes and account takeover attempts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and authentication flow controls within the mobile application's password reset mechanism. Attackers can exploit this weakness to manipulate the authentication process and gain control over user accounts without proper authorization. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple credential theft, as it allows for complete account subversion and potential escalation of privileges. This flaw represents a classic example of insufficient authentication checks that violate fundamental security principles and can be categorized under CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically targets the mobile client's security protocols rather than underlying infrastructure components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability creates significant risk for both individual users and the organizations involved in the affected systems. Users face potential account takeover, unauthorized access to personal information, and possible financial fraud if their accounts are compromised. For General Motors and Shanghai OnStar, the vulnerability represents a serious security breach that could damage customer trust and result in regulatory scrutiny. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it affects mobile clients that users may access from various locations and devices, potentially providing attackers with multiple entry points. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and credential access, demonstrating how improper authentication can lead to unauthorized system access and privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate implementation of proper authentication controls, including robust input validation, secure password reset mechanisms, and multi-factor authentication options. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of their mobile applications and implement proper session management controls to prevent unauthorized access. The fix should involve strengthening the authentication flow to ensure that only legitimate users can initiate password resets and that all reset requests are properly validated. Additionally, implementing rate limiting and monitoring for suspicious password reset activities can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security testing and penetration testing of mobile applications should be conducted to identify similar authentication weaknesses before they can be exploited by malicious actors.