CVE-2019-19463 in Huami Mi Fit App
Summary
by MITRE
The Anhui Huami Mi Fit application before 4.0.11 for Android has an Unencrypted Update Check.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-19463 affects the Anhui Huami Mi Fit application version 4.0.10 and earlier for Android devices, representing a significant security flaw in the application's update mechanism. This issue stems from the application's failure to implement proper encryption during update check communications, creating an exploitable weakness in the device's security posture. The vulnerability specifically impacts the communication channel used to verify and download application updates, leaving sensitive information exposed to potential interception and manipulation.
The technical flaw manifests as an unencrypted update check process that transmits version information, update URLs, and potentially user-specific data through insecure communication channels. This unencrypted transmission exposes the application to various attack vectors including man-in-the-middle attacks, where malicious actors can intercept and modify update payloads. The vulnerability falls under CWE-319, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper encryption of communications, making it particularly concerning for mobile applications that handle user data and device synchronization. The lack of encryption during update verification creates a persistent security gap that undermines the integrity and confidentiality of the application's update mechanism.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as it creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate the update process and potentially deliver malicious payloads to affected devices. Mobile applications that rely on secure update mechanisms are particularly vulnerable when they fail to implement proper encryption, as users may unknowingly install compromised versions of the software. This vulnerability affects the integrity of the software supply chain, potentially allowing attackers to introduce backdoors or malicious code during the update process. The security implications are compounded by the fact that many IoT and wearable devices rely on such update mechanisms for maintaining security patches and functional improvements.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper encryption protocols for all communication channels, particularly those involved in software updates and version verification. Organizations should ensure that all update check communications utilize secure protocols such as TLS 1.2 or higher, with appropriate certificate validation mechanisms in place. The implementation of certificate pinning and secure update verification mechanisms can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Additionally, regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other communication channels. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol: DNS, as it involves insecure communication patterns that could be exploited to manipulate update processes. Users should be advised to update to version 4.0.11 or later, which implements proper encryption for update checks, and administrators should monitor for any suspicious update activities that might indicate exploitation attempts.