CVE-2019-13053 in Unifying Devices
Summary
by MITRE
Logitech Unifying devices allow keystroke injection, bypassing encryption. The attacker must press a "magic" key combination while sniffing cryptographic data from a Radio Frequency transmission. NOTE: this issue exists because of an incomplete fix for CVE-2016-10761.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/09/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-13053 represents a critical security flaw in Logitech Unifying devices that undermines the cryptographic protections designed to secure wireless communications between peripheral devices and computers. This weakness specifically targets the encryption mechanisms implemented in Logitech's Unifying receiver technology, which is widely used to connect wireless keyboards, mice, and other input devices to computers. The flaw allows for keystroke injection attacks that can bypass the intended security measures, potentially enabling attackers to execute malicious commands or capture sensitive information without proper authorization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability relies on a sophisticated attack vector that requires an attacker to perform a specific "magic" key combination while simultaneously capturing cryptographic data transmitted via Radio Frequency communications. This method exploits weaknesses in the device's cryptographic protocol implementation, specifically targeting the authentication and encryption processes that should prevent unauthorized access to the wireless communication channel. The attack demonstrates a fundamental flaw in how the device handles cryptographic key management and session establishment, allowing an attacker to inject keystrokes that appear legitimate to the receiving system while actually executing malicious commands.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-13053 extends beyond simple keystroke injection to represent a significant threat to enterprise and individual security environments. When exploited, this vulnerability can enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to systems, capture sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent access through the compromised peripheral devices. The attack requires physical proximity and the ability to intercept wireless communications, making it particularly concerning for environments where wireless devices are used in sensitive locations or where social engineering attacks could be employed to position attackers appropriately. The vulnerability affects a wide range of Logitech Unifying devices, including keyboards, mice, and other peripherals that rely on the Unifying receiver technology.
This security issue represents an incomplete remediation of a previously identified vulnerability, specifically CVE-2016-10761, which demonstrates the challenges of addressing complex cryptographic vulnerabilities in consumer-grade wireless devices. The incomplete fix suggests that the original security measures were not fully comprehensive, leaving residual weaknesses that attackers could exploit through alternative attack vectors. This situation aligns with common patterns observed in security research where initial patches fail to address all potential attack surfaces, particularly in complex wireless protocols that must balance security with usability requirements. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weakness, and represents a significant concern for organizations implementing security controls around wireless device management.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-13053 require a multi-layered approach that addresses both the immediate security concerns and the broader implications for wireless device security. Organizations should implement immediate hardware-based solutions such as disabling wireless peripherals when not in use, deploying physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access to devices, and considering alternative input methods that do not rely on wireless protocols. Network-level security measures including wireless intrusion detection systems and monitoring for unusual RF activity can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The implementation of device management policies that require regular security updates and the deployment of security tools that can detect and prevent keystroke injection attacks represents critical defensive measures. Additionally, organizations should consider the broader implications for their wireless security posture and implement comprehensive policies for managing wireless peripherals, including regular security assessments and incident response procedures specifically tailored to wireless device vulnerabilities.