CVE-2019-11336 in Smart TV
Summary
by MITRE
Sony Bravia Smart TV devices allow remote attackers to retrieve the static Wi-Fi password (used when the TV is acting as an access point) by using the Photo Sharing Plus application to execute a backdoor API command, a different vulnerability than CVE-2019-10886.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/13/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-11336 represents a critical security flaw in Sony Bravia Smart TV devices that exposes sensitive network credentials through improper access control mechanisms. This vulnerability specifically affects the Photo Sharing Plus application which serves as a legitimate feature for sharing media content but has been exploited to gain unauthorized access to the device's Wi-Fi configuration. The flaw allows remote attackers to execute backdoor API commands that reveal the static Wi-Fi password used when the television operates in access point mode, creating a significant security risk for users who rely on this functionality for network connectivity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and authentication checks within the Photo Sharing Plus application's API endpoints. Attackers can leverage this weakness by sending specially crafted API requests that bypass normal authentication procedures, effectively granting them access to the television's network configuration parameters. This represents a classic case of insufficient access control where legitimate application functionality has been weaponized to extract sensitive information. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and demonstrates poor security design principles where administrative functions are accessible through user-facing interfaces without proper authorization checks. This flaw falls under the CWE-284 access control weakness category, specifically addressing improper access control mechanisms that allow unauthorized users to access sensitive system information.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-11336 extends beyond simple credential theft to potentially enable broader network compromise and lateral movement within home or office environments. Once an attacker obtains the static Wi-Fi password, they can establish persistent network access to the affected television and potentially use it as a foothold to access other devices connected to the same network. This vulnerability particularly affects users who have configured their Sony Bravia TVs to operate as wireless access points, which is common in scenarios where users need to connect mobile devices or other network-enabled equipment to their television without requiring a separate router. The exposure of network credentials through this backdoor mechanism creates a persistent security risk that can be exploited for extended periods without detection.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as part of the broader attack surface that affects Internet of Things devices and smart home ecosystems. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under the initial access phase, specifically through the use of valid accounts or credentials, and could potentially lead to privilege escalation or lateral movement within network environments. Organizations and individuals should implement immediate mitigations including disabling the Photo Sharing Plus application when not actively needed, updating firmware to versions that address this vulnerability, and implementing network segmentation to limit the potential impact of credential compromise. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of conducting security assessments of smart home devices and the need for manufacturers to implement proper security controls during the development lifecycle. Network monitoring should include detection of unusual API access patterns and unauthorized credential retrieval attempts, while users should be educated about the risks associated with leaving network configuration features enabled without proper security controls in place.