CVE-2019-5250 in Mate 20 Pro
Summary
by MITRE
Mate 20 Pro smartphones with versions earlier than 9.1.0.135(C00E133R3P1) have an improper authorization vulnerability. The software does not properly restrict certain operation of certain privilege, the attacker could trick the user into installing a malicious application before the user turns on student mode function. Successful exploit could allow the attacker to bypass the limit of student mode function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/12/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-5250 affects Huawei Mate 20 Pro smartphones running firmware versions prior to 9.1.0.135(C00E133R3P1) and represents a critical authorization flaw that undermines the security controls of the device's student mode functionality. This issue stems from inadequate privilege management within the smartphone's operating system, creating a pathway for malicious actors to circumvent intended security restrictions. The vulnerability specifically targets the student mode feature which is designed to limit access to certain applications and functionalities on the device, making it particularly concerning for users who rely on this protective mechanism.
The technical flaw manifests through improper authorization controls that fail to adequately restrict specific operational privileges within the device's security framework. Attackers can exploit this weakness by tricking users into installing malicious applications during the pre-activation phase of the student mode function. This social engineering component is crucial to the attack vector as it leverages user trust and behavior patterns to gain initial access to the device. The vulnerability exists in the timing and execution of privilege checks that occur during the student mode activation process, allowing unauthorized operations to proceed despite the intended security restrictions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity of the device's parental control and student mode protections. Once exploited, attackers can bypass all limitations imposed by student mode, potentially gaining access to restricted applications, internet browsing capabilities, and system functionalities that should be disabled during this mode. This could enable malicious actors to monitor user activities, install additional malware, or access sensitive personal data that would normally be protected by the student mode restrictions. The vulnerability affects the core security model of the device's user protection mechanisms, undermining the trust users place in these protective features.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-5250 primarily focus on firmware updates and user education. Huawei released security patches for affected devices that address the authorization flaw by strengthening the privilege validation processes during student mode activation. Users should immediately update their devices to firmware version 9.1.0.135(C00E133R3P1) or later to remediate this vulnerability. Additionally, security best practices recommend that users avoid installing applications from untrusted sources and remain vigilant about social engineering attempts that might exploit this vulnerability. The weakness aligns with CWE-284 which addresses improper access control, and could potentially be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1068 for local privilege escalation. Organizations should implement comprehensive mobile device management policies that include regular security updates and user awareness training to prevent exploitation of similar authorization flaws in mobile environments.