CVE-2017-2706 in Mate 9
Summary
by MITRE
Mate 9 smartphones with software MHA-AL00AC00B125 have a directory traversal vulnerability in Push module. Since the system does not verify the file name during decompression, system directories are traversed. It could be exploited to cause the attacker to replace files and impact the service.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2023
The CVE-2017-2706 vulnerability affects Huawei Mate 9 smartphones running software version MHA-AL00AC00B125 and specifically targets the Push module functionality. This directory traversal flaw represents a critical security weakness that allows unauthorized file manipulation through improper input validation during decompression operations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient verification of file names when processing compressed archives, creating an exploitable condition where attackers can navigate beyond intended directories and access system-level file structures.
This technical flaw operates at the application layer and specifically manifests within the Push module's decompression handling mechanism. The absence of proper file name validation during decompression processes enables attackers to craft malicious payloads that exploit the directory traversal capability. When the system attempts to decompress files without verifying the integrity or legitimacy of the file paths contained within the archive, it allows for arbitrary directory traversal that can extend beyond the intended decompression target. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as directory traversal or path traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, potentially enabling attackers to replace critical system files and disrupt normal service operations. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could gain the ability to overwrite essential system components, modify application behavior, or even install malicious code that persists across system reboots. The compromised Push module functionality could serve as a foothold for broader system compromise, as it provides a mechanism for remote code execution or privilege escalation. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, and T1074.001, covering data staged for exfiltration through file and directory traversal.
Security implications of CVE-2017-2706 are particularly severe given the mobile platform context where system integrity is paramount for user data protection and device security. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that could be exploited by attackers to maintain long-term access to compromised devices. The affected software version represents a specific release that contained this flaw, indicating that proper input validation and secure coding practices were not adequately implemented during the development lifecycle. Organizations and users should consider immediate mitigation through software updates or patches provided by Huawei, as well as network-based protections to prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of implementing proper input validation and secure file handling practices in mobile operating systems, particularly in modules that process external data such as push notifications.