CVE-2017-2715 in Files App
Summary
by MITRE
The Files APP 7.1.1.309 and earlier versions in some Huawei mobile phones has a brute-force password cracking vulnerability due to the improper design of the Safe key database. An unauthorized attacker could access sensitive database information and may crack users' Safe passwords, leading to information leak.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2715 represents a critical security flaw in Huawei's Files APP version 7.1.1.309 and earlier releases, specifically affecting certain Huawei mobile devices. This weakness stems from inadequate design considerations within the Safe key database implementation, creating exploitable conditions that allow malicious actors to bypass normal authentication mechanisms. The flaw resides in the application's password protection system where the underlying cryptographic or authentication framework fails to properly enforce security controls, enabling attackers to systematically attempt password guesses without sufficient protection measures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests through improper handling of password validation processes within the Safe key database component. Attackers can exploit this weakness through brute-force methodologies, systematically cycling through potential password combinations to gain unauthorized access to protected data. The vulnerability essentially undermines the fundamental security principle of authentication by failing to implement adequate rate limiting, account lockout mechanisms, or secure password storage practices. This design flaw creates a pathway for attackers to access sensitive database information that should remain protected through proper password enforcement.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to user data confidentiality and system integrity. Successful exploitation could result in unauthorized access to personal files, sensitive documents, and other protected information stored within the device's secure database. The information leakage potential extends beyond simple data exposure, as compromised passwords could potentially provide attackers with access to additional systems or accounts where users may have reused credentials. The vulnerability affects Huawei mobile devices running specific versions of the Files APP, creating a widespread risk for users who have not updated their applications to more secure versions.
Security practitioners should recognize this vulnerability as aligning with CWE-307, which addresses improper restriction of excessive authentication attempts, and CWE-312, covering the exposure of sensitive data through cleartext storage or transmission. The attack pattern corresponds to techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1110, which covers Brute Force and T1074, involving data staging and collection. Organizations and users should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of the Files APP, implementing additional authentication layers, and monitoring for suspicious access patterns. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper security testing and validation of authentication mechanisms, particularly in mobile applications where device security directly impacts user data protection.