CVE-2017-17226 in TripAdvisor App
Summary
by MITRE
The TripAdvisor app with the versions before TAMobileApp-24.6.4 pre-installed in some Huawei mobile phones have an arbitrary URL loading vulnerability due to insufficient input validation and improper configuration. An attacker may exploit this vulnerability to invoke TripAdvisor to load a specific URL and execute malicious code contained in the URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-17226 represents a critical security flaw in the TripAdvisor mobile application version 24.6.4 and earlier, specifically affecting devices where the app is pre-installed on Huawei smartphones. This arbitrary URL loading vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the application's codebase, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the app's behavior through crafted URL inputs. The flaw manifests when the application fails to properly sanitize or validate external URL references, allowing unauthorized code execution through seemingly benign web addresses.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under the category of insecure input handling and improper URL validation, aligning with CWE-20 - Improper Input Validation and CWE-94 - Improper Control of Generation of Code. The vulnerability enables attackers to leverage the app's legitimate URL loading functionality to redirect or inject malicious content, potentially executing arbitrary code on the affected device. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in mobile environments where applications often have elevated privileges and access to sensitive user data. The issue is further exacerbated by the pre-installed nature of the application on Huawei devices, meaning users may not be aware of the vulnerability or may not have the ability to update the application independently.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete device compromise and unauthorized access to user information. Attackers can exploit this flaw to perform man-in-the-middle attacks, inject malware, or redirect users to phishing sites that appear legitimate. The vulnerability affects users of Huawei devices where the TripAdvisor application is pre-installed, creating a widespread attack surface. Mobile security frameworks such as the Android Security Model are compromised when such vulnerabilities exist, as they rely on proper input validation to prevent unauthorized code execution. The risk is particularly elevated for users who trust the TripAdvisor application and may not suspect that a simple URL click could lead to full system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention from both application developers and end-users. Application vendors should implement proper URL validation mechanisms, including input sanitization, domain whitelisting, and secure URL parsing functions to prevent unauthorized redirection. Users should be advised to update their applications to version 24.6.4 or later, which contains the necessary security patches. Security measures should include implementing strict content security policies, validating all external URLs against known safe domains, and employing secure coding practices that prevent injection attacks. Organizations should also consider network-level protections such as web application firewalls and DNS filtering to prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of mobile application security testing and the need for comprehensive security reviews of pre-installed applications, particularly those with access to user data and system resources. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command and control communications and privilege escalation through application exploitation, highlighting the need for robust mobile device management policies and endpoint security solutions.