CVE-2018-5283 in Photos in Wifi application
Summary
by MITRE
The Photos in Wifi application 1.0.1 for iOS has directory traversal via the ext parameter to assets-library://asset/asset.php.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-5283 affects the Photos in Wifi application version 1.0.1 running on iOS devices. This application enables users to transfer photos from their iOS devices to a remote server via wifi connections. The flaw resides in how the application processes the ext parameter within the assets-library://asset/asset.php endpoint, which creates a directory traversal condition that allows unauthorized access to files outside the intended directory structure. This represents a critical security weakness that can be exploited by attackers to gain access to sensitive data stored on the device.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the application's file handling mechanism. When the ext parameter is processed, the application fails to properly sanitize or validate user-supplied input before using it in file system operations. This allows an attacker to manipulate the parameter value to traverse directories beyond the intended scope of the assets-library protocol. The vulnerability specifically targets the assets-library:// URI scheme which is designed to access photo assets stored within the iOS photo library, but the improper handling of the ext parameter creates an opportunity for arbitrary file access.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents significant risks to iOS device users and their data privacy. An attacker who can exploit this directory traversal flaw can potentially access photos, personal information, and other sensitive data stored within the device's photo library. The impact extends beyond just media files since the vulnerability could allow access to other system files or cached data that might contain authentication tokens, personal information, or application-specific data. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages the legitimate assets-library protocol while exploiting a flaw in parameter handling, making it difficult to detect through standard network monitoring.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and is classified under the ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it allows for arbitrary file access through manipulated parameters. The weakness creates a persistent threat vector that could be exploited by malicious actors to perform reconnaissance, exfiltrate sensitive information, or establish further footholds within the device's file system. The application's reliance on the assets-library protocol without proper input sanitization creates an attack surface that directly violates secure coding principles and best practices for mobile application security.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all parameters received by the application, particularly those used in file system operations. The application should validate the ext parameter against a strict whitelist of allowed values and ensure that all file access operations are properly scoped to prevent directory traversal. Additionally, the application should implement proper access controls and authentication mechanisms to limit who can access the assets-library functionality. The most effective long-term solution would involve updating the application to properly validate and sanitize all user inputs before processing them in any file system operations, thereby preventing the exploitation of this directory traversal vulnerability.