CVE-2018-16222 in iSmartAlarm App
Summary
by MITRE
Cleartext Storage of credentials in the iSmartAlarmData.xml configuration file in the iSmartAlarm application through 2.0.8 for Android allows an attacker to retrieve the username and password.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-16222 represents a critical security flaw in the iSmartAlarm Android application version 2.0.8 and earlier. This issue stems from the application's improper handling of authentication credentials, specifically storing them in cleartext within the iSmartAlarmData.xml configuration file. The flaw demonstrates a fundamental failure in secure credential management practices, where sensitive authentication information is persisted in an easily accessible format rather than being properly encrypted or obfuscated.
This vulnerability operates at the application level within the Android operating system environment and directly violates established security principles for credential storage. The cleartext storage of credentials creates an immediate and severe risk for unauthorized access, as any attacker with access to the device can simply navigate to the configuration file location and extract the username and password without requiring additional exploitation techniques. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-312, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through cleartext storage, and represents a classic example of poor input validation and secure data handling practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to iSmartAlarm accounts and potentially compromise the entire security ecosystem of connected home security systems. Once credentials are obtained, attackers can manipulate security settings, disable alarms, access live feeds, and perform other malicious activities that directly undermine the security objectives the application was designed to achieve. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects the Android platform, where users may have limited security awareness and where file system access can occur through various attack vectors including compromised devices, malware, or physical access scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security architecture improvements. The primary solution involves implementing proper encryption mechanisms for credential storage, ensuring that authentication information is never stored in cleartext format. Security controls should include the implementation of Android's Keystore system or similar secure credential storage mechanisms, along with proper access controls and file permissions that limit who can read the configuration files. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security measures such as credential rotation, multi-factor authentication, and regular security assessments to prevent similar issues from occurring in other components of their security infrastructure. This vulnerability serves as a clear example of how basic security principles, when neglected, can create severe systemic risks that compromise user safety and privacy. The flaw also demonstrates the importance of adhering to security best practices as outlined in various frameworks including the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO/IEC 27001 standards for secure application development and deployment.