CVE-2019-12369 in App
Summary
by MITRE
The TypeApp application through 1.9.5.35 for Android allows XSS via an event attribute and arbitrary file loading via a src attribute, if the application has the READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE permission.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/19/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-12369 affects the TypeApp application version 1.9.5.35 and earlier on Android platforms, representing a critical security flaw that combines both cross-site scripting and arbitrary file loading capabilities. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the application's handling of event attributes and source attributes, creating exploitable entry points for malicious actors to execute unauthorized code and access sensitive system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input when processing event attributes and src attributes in its rendering mechanisms. When the application processes these attributes without adequate validation, it creates opportunities for attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code through event handlers or load arbitrary files from external storage locations. The presence of the READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE permission significantly amplifies the risk, as it grants the application access to files stored on external storage devices, potentially enabling attackers to load malicious content directly from the device's file system. This flaw aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting vulnerabilities, and CWE-22 which covers improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a comprehensive attack surface that can be leveraged for various malicious activities. An attacker could potentially inject persistent XSS payloads that would execute in the context of other users who view affected content, leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or further exploitation of the victim's device. Additionally, the arbitrary file loading capability could enable attackers to read sensitive files from external storage, potentially including personal documents, photos, or other confidential data. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in mobile environments where applications often have elevated privileges and access to user data, making it a prime target for exploitation in mobile malware campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and sanitization measures throughout the application's codebase. Developers must ensure that all user-supplied input is properly escaped and validated before being processed or rendered, particularly when handling event attributes and source attributes. The application should avoid using dynamic attribute binding without proper sanitization and implement strict access controls for external storage permissions. Security measures should include implementing Content Security Policy headers, using parameterized queries for file operations, and regularly auditing code for potential injection points. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime application self-protection mechanisms and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, highlighting the need for comprehensive security controls that address both client-side and server-side vulnerabilities in mobile applications.