CVE-2017-17279 in Mate 9 Pro
Summary
by MITRE
The soundtrigger module in Huawei Mate 9 Pro smart phones with software of the versions before LON-AL00B 8.0.0.343(C00) has an authentication bypass vulnerability due to the improper design of the module. An attacker tricks a user into installing a malicious application, and the application can exploit the vulnerability and make attacker bypass the authentication, the attacker can control the phone to sent short messages and make call within audio range to the phone.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2023
The CVE-2017-17279 vulnerability represents a critical authentication bypass flaw within the soundtrigger module of Huawei Mate 9 Pro smartphones running affected software versions. This vulnerability stems from improper design decisions in the module's architecture, creating a pathway for malicious actors to circumvent legitimate authentication mechanisms. The soundtrigger module, designed to recognize specific audio patterns for voice activation and command execution, contains a fundamental security weakness that allows unauthorized access to core phone functions. The vulnerability specifically affects devices with software versions prior to LON-AL00B 8.0.0.343(C00), indicating a targeted issue that was likely addressed through subsequent security updates. The flaw operates by exploiting the module's failure to properly validate authentication requests, creating an environment where malicious applications can manipulate the system's trust model. This represents a classic example of a design-level security vulnerability that undermines the fundamental security assumptions of the device's operating system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a sophisticated social engineering attack vector where an attacker must first convince a user to install a malicious application. This installation process bypasses traditional security measures by leveraging the legitimate soundtrigger module's functionality to execute unauthorized operations. Once installed, the malicious application can exploit the authentication bypass to gain unauthorized control over the phone's communication capabilities. The vulnerability enables attackers to send short messages and make calls through audio range commands, effectively turning the compromised device into an unauthorized communication tool. This exploitation mechanism demonstrates a clear violation of the principle of least privilege, where the malicious application gains elevated privileges beyond its intended scope. The soundtrigger module's improper handling of authentication contexts allows the attacker to manipulate the device's normal operational flow, creating a backdoor that can be activated through specific audio triggers. This type of vulnerability is categorized under CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' through various attack vectors including module-based exploits.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-17279 extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass serious privacy and security implications for affected users. The ability to send messages and make calls without user consent creates a significant risk for personal data exposure and potential financial fraud. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to conduct unauthorized communications that may appear legitimate to recipients, enabling social engineering attacks at scale. The audio-based activation method adds a layer of sophistication that makes detection more challenging, as the malicious activity can occur without direct user interaction or visible interface changes. This vulnerability particularly affects the device's integrity and availability, as it allows unauthorized parties to control critical communication functions. The security implications extend to potential data exfiltration scenarios where attackers can use the compromised device to relay information through SMS or voice communications. Organizations and individuals using affected Huawei devices face increased risk of targeted attacks, particularly in environments where device security is paramount. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple software versions indicates a systemic design flaw that requires comprehensive remediation rather than simple patching. This type of vulnerability can serve as a gateway for more extensive attacks, potentially leading to full device compromise or data breach scenarios. The attack surface created by this vulnerability encompasses both local and remote exploitation capabilities, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where devices are frequently exposed to untrusted applications and network conditions.