CVE-2017-3742 in Connect2
Summary
by MITRE
In Lenovo Connect2 versions earlier than 4.2.5.4885 for Windows and 4.2.5.3071 for Android, when an ad-hoc connection is made between two systems for the purpose of sharing files, the password for this ad-hoc connection will be stored in a user-readable location. An attacker with read access to the user's contents could connect to the Connect2 hotspot and see the contents of files while they are being transferred between the two systems.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-3742 affects Lenovo Connect2 software versions prior to 4.2.5.4885 for Windows and 4.2.5.3071 for Android operating systems. This security flaw specifically impacts ad-hoc file sharing connections between two systems, creating a significant exposure risk for users who rely on this functionality for data transfer operations. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of authentication credentials within the Connect2 application, particularly when establishing temporary network connections for file sharing purposes. This issue represents a critical weakness in the application's security architecture, as it directly compromises the confidentiality of data being transferred between systems.
The technical implementation flaw involves the storage of ad-hoc connection passwords in user-readable locations within the file system or application memory structures. This design decision violates fundamental security principles by exposing sensitive authentication information to unauthorized parties who might gain read access to the user's system contents. The password storage occurs in plaintext format within accessible directories, making it trivial for attackers to extract and utilize these credentials. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-312, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper data handling, and falls within the ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1566 for credential access through social engineering or system exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it enables attackers to gain access to files in transit between connected systems. This creates a man-in-the-middle scenario where unauthorized parties can intercept and view content during file transfer operations, potentially compromising sensitive data including personal information, business documents, or proprietary materials. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where users may have limited system security controls or where physical access to devices is possible. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access to network shares or file systems, potentially leading to broader system compromise and data exfiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-3742 require immediate software updates to the latest versions of Lenovo Connect2 that address the password storage vulnerability. Organizations should implement network monitoring to detect unauthorized Connect2 connections and establish strict access controls for systems running the affected software. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify systems running vulnerable versions and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of ad-hoc connections and encouraged to avoid using the affected software for sensitive data transfers. The remediation process should include verification that updated versions properly implement secure credential handling, including encryption of stored passwords and removal of plaintext credential storage from user-accessible locations. System administrators should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of credential exposure, while monitoring for suspicious network activity that may indicate exploitation attempts.