CVE-2019-5263 in HiSuite
Summary
by MITRE
HiSuite with 9.1.0.305 and earlier versions and 9.1.0.305(MAC) and earlier versions and HwBackup with earlier versions before 9.1.1.308 have a brute forcing encrypted backup data vulnerability. Huawei smartphone user backup information can be obtained by brute forcing the password for encrypting the backup.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-5263 affects Huawei's HiSuite software and HwBackup applications across multiple versions including HiSuite 9.1.0.305 and earlier, its macOS counterpart 9.1.0.305 and earlier, and HwBackup versions prior to 9.1.1.308. This security flaw represents a critical weakness in the backup encryption mechanism that protects user data on Huawei smartphones. The vulnerability specifically targets the password protection scheme used to encrypt backup data, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to sensitive user information.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from weak cryptographic practices in the password-based encryption system. Attackers can exploit this weakness through brute force attacks against the encrypted backup files, systematically attempting various password combinations to decrypt the protected data. This approach bypasses the intended security measures that should protect user information during the backup process. The vulnerability operates at the application level within the backup management system, where the encryption algorithms and password handling mechanisms fail to provide adequate protection against automated attack vectors. The flaw essentially allows adversaries to recover user backup information without proper authorization, undermining the fundamental security premise of encrypted data protection.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-5263 extends beyond simple data exposure, as it compromises the confidentiality of potentially sensitive user information stored in backup files. This includes personal data, application settings, messages, photos, and other device-specific information that users expect to be protected. The vulnerability affects users who rely on Huawei's backup solutions for data recovery and device migration, creating a persistent security risk for anyone using affected software versions. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that backup data often contains comprehensive user profiles and device configurations that could be leveraged for further exploitation or identity theft.
Security practitioners should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weaknesses in password-based encryption systems. The flaw demonstrates poor implementation of key derivation functions and encryption parameters that fail to meet industry standards for secure password handling. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving credential access and data extraction, specifically targeting the T1212 - Exploitation for Credential Access and T1029 - Scheduled Transfer categories. Organizations and users should prioritize immediate remediation by updating to Huawei software versions 9.1.1.308 or later, where the encryption implementation has been strengthened to prevent brute force attacks. Additional mitigations include avoiding the use of weak passwords for backup encryption and implementing additional access controls for backup storage locations. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper cryptographic implementation and the potential consequences of inadequate password security in backup systems.