CVE-2019-15428 in Mi Note 2
Summary
by MITRE
The Xiaomi Mi Note 2 Android device with a build fingerprint of Xiaomi/scorpio/scorpio:6.0.1/MXB48T/7.1.5:user/release-keys contains a pre-installed app with a package name of com.miui.powerkeeper app (versionCode=40000, versionName=4.0.00) that allows unauthorized wireless settings modification via a confused deputy attack. This capability can be accessed by any app co-located on the device.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-15428 represents a critical security flaw in Xiaomi Mi Note 2 devices running Android 6.0.1, specifically within the pre-installed miui.powerkeeper application. This issue stems from a confused deputy attack vector that allows any malicious application co-located on the device to manipulate wireless settings without proper authorization. The affected application package com.miui.powerkeeper version 4.0.00 operates with elevated privileges that create an attack surface for unauthorized modifications to device wireless configurations, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular settings.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the powerkeeper application's improper handling of inter-process communication mechanisms that allow privilege escalation. When an attacker installs a malicious application alongside the legitimate powerkeeper service, the confused deputy attack enables the malicious app to masquerade as the legitimate service and execute unauthorized operations. This flaw falls under CWE-284, Access Control, specifically addressing insufficient access control mechanisms that permit unauthorized modification of system resources. The vulnerability operates at the system level where the legitimate powerkeeper application's permissions are improperly enforced, allowing unauthorized apps to leverage its privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple wireless setting manipulation to encompass broader system security implications. An attacker with access to a co-located application can potentially disable security features, redirect network traffic, or establish persistent backdoors through wireless configuration changes. This capability significantly undermines the device's security posture and creates opportunities for advanced persistent threats to establish footholds within the device environment. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to exploit and can be executed by any application with basic installation permissions on the device.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-15428 should focus on immediate application of security patches provided by Xiaomi and the Android security team. Device administrators should implement strict application installation policies and regularly audit applications installed on affected devices. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it allows attackers to execute unauthorized commands through wireless configuration manipulation. Organizations should consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can monitor for suspicious application behavior and enforce security policies that prevent installation of untrusted applications. Regular security assessments and device hardening procedures should include verification of powerkeeper application integrity and proper access controls to prevent exploitation of this confused deputy vulnerability.