CVE-2019-0172 in Unite Client
Summary
by MITRE
A logic issue in Intel Unite(R) Client for Android prior to version 4.0 may allow a remote attacker to potentially enable escalation of privilege via network access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/21/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-0172 affects Intel Unite Client for Android software versions prior to 4.0, representing a critical logic flaw that could be exploited by remote attackers to achieve privilege escalation. This issue stems from inadequate validation mechanisms within the application's network handling components, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the system's permission structure. The vulnerability specifically targets the client-side implementation of Intel Unite's remote desktop functionality, which allows users to control computers from mobile devices. The flaw manifests when the application processes network requests without proper authentication checks or access control validation, potentially allowing unauthorized users to execute privileged operations that should be restricted to legitimate administrators or authorized personnel.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control issues, and demonstrates how insufficient privilege validation can create security boundaries that are easily circumvented. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could potentially gain elevated privileges on the target system through network-based attacks, effectively bypassing the normal authentication and authorization mechanisms that should protect system resources. The flaw exists in the Android client application's handling of network communications, where it fails to properly validate the authenticity of incoming requests or ensure that operations are performed by authorized users. This represents a fundamental breakdown in the application's security architecture, as the system should enforce strict access controls regardless of the network origin of requests.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations relying on Intel Unite for remote management and collaboration solutions. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require physical access to the target device or network, making the attack surface much broader and more accessible. Organizations using older versions of the Intel Unite Client for Android could face unauthorized access to sensitive systems, potential data breaches, and complete system compromise if attackers successfully escalate privileges. The impact extends beyond individual device compromise to potentially affect entire network infrastructures, as the compromised device could serve as a foothold for further attacks within the organization's network perimeter. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where remote desktop solutions are commonly deployed and where the attack surface includes numerous potential entry points for malicious actors.
The recommended mitigation strategies focus on immediate software updates to version 4.0 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the privilege escalation logic flaw. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected software across their network infrastructure and ensure proper patch management procedures are implemented. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, security teams should implement strict access control policies and regularly audit user permissions to minimize potential damage from any successful exploitation attempts. The remediation process should include thorough testing of updated software versions to ensure compatibility with existing network configurations and business processes. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as network intrusion detection systems and endpoint protection solutions to provide defense-in-depth against similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current security software versions and demonstrates how seemingly minor logic flaws can have significant security implications in enterprise environments.