CVE-2019-14951 in Scout GPS Link App
Summary
by MITRE
The Telenav Scout GPS Link app 1.x for iOS, as used with Toyota and Lexus vehicles, has an incorrect protection mechanism against brute-force attacks on the authentication process, which makes it easier for attackers to obtain multimedia-screen access via port 7050 on the cellular network, as demonstrated by a DrivingRestriction method call to uma/jsonrpc/mobile.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-14951 affects the Telenav Scout GPS Link application version 1.x running on iOS devices within Toyota and Lexus vehicles. This security flaw resides in the authentication mechanism designed to protect access to the vehicle's multimedia screen through the cellular network interface. The application utilizes port 7050 for communication with the vehicle's infotainment system, specifically employing the DrivingRestriction method call through the uma/jsonrpc/mobile endpoint to control access and functionality. The weakness manifests in the inadequate protection against brute-force attacks, which fundamentally undermines the security controls intended to prevent unauthorized access to vehicle systems.
The technical implementation flaw stems from insufficient rate limiting and authentication validation mechanisms within the application's communication protocol. When an attacker gains access to the cellular network interface on port 7050, they can repeatedly attempt authentication credentials without effective protection measures. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-307, which addresses improper restriction of repeated authentication attempts, and represents a critical weakness in the authentication process that allows for automated credential guessing attacks. The application's failure to implement proper account lockout mechanisms, exponential backoff strategies, or other anti-brute force controls creates an environment where attackers can systematically test numerous credential combinations until successful access is achieved.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to vehicle entertainment systems. The compromised authentication mechanism enables attackers to execute the DrivingRestriction method call, which provides access to critical vehicle functions that could potentially affect driver safety and vehicle operation. This vulnerability presents a significant risk to vehicle security and privacy, as it allows remote exploitation of vehicle systems through cellular networks without requiring physical access to the vehicle. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vehicle's multimedia screen is often used for navigation, entertainment, and communication functions that drivers rely on for safe operation.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of protection to mitigate this vulnerability, including network segmentation to restrict access to port 7050, implementation of robust rate limiting mechanisms, and deployment of intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious authentication patterns. The remediation process requires updating the Telenav Scout application to include proper authentication controls such as account lockout after failed attempts, randomized delays between authentication attempts, and implementation of multi-factor authentication where possible. Organizations should also consider the ATT&CK framework's T1110 technique for Brute Force, which specifically addresses credential guessing attacks and recommends implementing account lockout policies and monitoring for suspicious activity patterns. Additionally, network administrators should conduct regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar authentication weaknesses across all vehicle connectivity systems, as this vulnerability demonstrates the critical need for proper authentication controls in automotive cybersecurity implementations.