CVE-2017-2699 in Themes APP
Summary
by MITRE
The Huawei Themes APP in versions earlier than PLK-UL00C17B385, versions earlier than CRR-L09C432B380, versions earlier than LYO-L21C577B128 has a privilege elevation vulnerability. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to upload theme packs containing malicious files and trick users into installing the theme packets, resulting in the execution of arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2699 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within Huawei's Themes application ecosystem affecting multiple device models and software versions. This vulnerability resides in the theme installation and processing mechanisms of Huawei's mobile operating systems, specifically impacting devices running versions prior to PLK-UL00C17B385, CRR-L09C432B380, and LYO-L21C577B128. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and insufficient permission controls during the theme package installation process, creating a pathway for malicious actors to bypass normal security boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to craft specially designed theme packages that contain malicious code or payloads. When users install these compromised themes, the malicious components are executed with elevated privileges, typically those of the system or application user context. This privilege escalation occurs because the themes application fails to properly validate file contents, verify digital signatures, or enforce proper access controls during the installation lifecycle. The vulnerability operates at the application level and can be exploited through social engineering techniques where users are tricked into downloading and installing seemingly legitimate theme packages from untrusted sources.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2699 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass potential full system compromise. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to sensitive device data, modify system files, install additional malware, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The threat landscape surrounding this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers 'Local Privilege Escalation' and T1550.1001 which addresses 'Use Alternate Authentication Material'. The attack vector typically involves phishing campaigns or malicious app distribution channels where users unknowingly install compromised theme packages, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous due to its reliance on user interaction and trust.
Security researchers have categorized this vulnerability under CWE-269 which describes 'Improper Privilege Management' and CWE-276 which addresses 'Incorrect Default Permissions'. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of principle of least privilege enforcement within the themes application framework, where the application operates with excessive permissions that should be restricted. Mitigation strategies include immediate patch deployment for affected Huawei devices, implementation of application whitelisting policies, and enhanced user education about theme installation practices. Organizations should also consider network-level monitoring to detect suspicious theme package installations and implement device management policies that restrict theme installation from untrusted sources. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure application design principles and proper input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework recommendations for mobile platform security.