CVE-2019-11063 in SmartHome Android App
Summary
by MITRE
A broken access control vulnerability in SmartHome app (Android versions up to 3.0.42_190515, ios versions up to 2.0.22) allows an attacker in the same local area network to list user accounts and control IoT devices that connect with its gateway (HG100) via http://[target]/smarthome/devicecontrol without any authentication.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2023
This vulnerability represents a critical authentication bypass flaw in SmartHome mobile applications affecting both android and ios platforms. The issue stems from improper access control implementation within the smart home ecosystem, specifically within the HG100 gateway device that serves as the central hub for IoT device management. The vulnerability exists in versions up to android 3.0.42_190515 and ios 2.0.22, indicating a widespread exposure across multiple device types and operating systems. The flaw allows unauthorized local network attackers to exploit a poorly secured http endpoint at http://[target]/smarthome/devicecontrol, which should require authentication but instead grants full access to device control functions without any credential verification.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-285, which describes improper authorization issues in software systems. This weakness specifically manifests as a failure to properly validate user credentials or session tokens before granting access to sensitive functionality. The vulnerability operates at the application layer of the network stack, where the SmartHome application fails to implement proper authentication mechanisms for its device control interface. This allows an attacker within the same local area network to enumerate user accounts and gain complete control over connected IoT devices, effectively bypassing the application's intended security controls. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires only local network access, making it accessible to attackers who have physical proximity to the network or have managed to gain access to the same network segment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, creating a significant risk for smart home environments. An attacker with local network access can not only view user accounts but also execute arbitrary commands on connected IoT devices, potentially leading to complete compromise of the smart home ecosystem. This includes unauthorized access to security cameras, door locks, lighting systems, thermostats, and other connected devices that may contain sensitive personal information or provide physical security control. The vulnerability enables a range of malicious activities including data exfiltration, device manipulation, and potential escalation to broader network compromise. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1082 for system information discovery, as the attacker can enumerate user accounts and device information without proper authorization.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate implementation of proper authentication controls and network segmentation measures. Organizations should implement mandatory authentication for all device control endpoints, ensuring that every access request requires valid credentials before granting access to sensitive functions. Network administrators should consider implementing firewall rules that restrict access to the vulnerable http endpoint to only trusted devices or require additional authentication mechanisms such as API keys or certificate-based authentication. The SmartHome application developers must address this issue by implementing proper session management, enforcing strong authentication requirements, and ensuring that all endpoints require valid authorization tokens before executing any device control operations. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual access patterns or unauthorized attempts to access the vulnerable endpoint, providing early warning capabilities for potential exploitation attempts.