CVE-2018-10499 in GALAXY Apps
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows local attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of Samsung Galaxy Apps Fixed in version 6.4.0.15. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the handling of URLs. The issue lies in the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, which can allow arbitrary JavaScript to execute. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to install applications under the context of the current user. Was ZDI-CAN-5330.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/26/2020
CVE-2018-10499 represents a local privilege escalation vulnerability affecting Samsung Galaxy Apps version 6.4.0.15 and earlier. This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-1573 which deals with improper handling of input validation and sanitization. The flaw specifically manifests in the URL handling mechanisms within the Samsung Galaxy Apps application, where insufficient validation of user-supplied data creates a dangerous condition for code execution. The vulnerability operates at the application level within the Android operating system environment, making it particularly concerning for mobile device security. Attackers exploiting this weakness can leverage JavaScript injection capabilities to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user context.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper sanitization of URL parameters within the Samsung Galaxy Apps framework. When the application processes user-provided URLs, it fails to adequately validate or escape input data before rendering or executing JavaScript code. This creates a classic injection vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious JavaScript payloads into the application's execution context. The vulnerability is classified as a local exploit since it requires initial access to execute low-privileged code on the target system, typically through a separate attack vector such as phishing or compromised applications. Once the initial foothold is established, the attacker can craft malicious URLs that bypass the application's security controls.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-10499 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full application installation capabilities under the current user's privileges. This means that an attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can install malicious applications without requiring elevated system permissions. The attack chain typically involves the attacker first gaining access to execute code at a low privilege level, then using this initial access to craft specially formatted URLs that trigger the JavaScript injection. The installed applications operate with the same privileges as the compromised user account, potentially allowing for further escalation attacks or data exfiltration. This vulnerability directly impacts the Android security model by undermining the application sandboxing mechanisms that protect user data and system integrity.
Security mitigations for CVE-2018-10499 should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization controls within the Samsung Galaxy Apps application. The primary recommendation involves proper parameter validation and JavaScript escaping to prevent malicious code injection. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied data undergoes strict validation before being processed or rendered within the application. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which covers JavaScript/JScript execution, making it particularly relevant for mobile security hardening. Additionally, system administrators should maintain updated Samsung Galaxy Apps installations and apply security patches promptly. The fix implemented in version 6.4.0.15 demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the need for regular security updates. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious URL patterns and JavaScript injection attempts within mobile application environments.