CVE-2019-9140 in App
Summary
by MITRE
When processing Deeplink scheme, Happypoint mobile app 6.3.19 and earlier versions doesn't check Deeplink URL correctly. This could lead to javascript code execution, url redirection, sensitive information disclosure. An attacker can exploit this issue by enticing an unsuspecting user to open a specific malicious URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2023
The vulnerability described in CVE-2019-9140 represents a critical security flaw in the Happypoint mobile application version 6.3.19 and earlier, specifically within its deeplink scheme processing functionality. This issue falls under the category of improper input validation and demonstrates a classic example of insecure handling of external URI schemes that are commonly used for application-to-application communication. The vulnerability arises from the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize deeplink URLs before processing them, creating an attack surface that can be exploited by malicious actors to manipulate the application's behavior in unintended ways.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's lack of proper URL sanitization and validation mechanisms when handling deeplink schemes. When a user opens a deeplink URL, the application should verify that the URL belongs to a trusted source and that it conforms to expected parameters and protocols. However, the Happypoint application fails to perform these crucial checks, allowing attackers to craft malicious URLs that can trigger unintended JavaScript execution within the application context. This flaw is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through social engineering techniques, where an attacker convinces a victim to click on a maliciously crafted URL that appears legitimate.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass more severe consequences including potential remote code execution and unauthorized redirection. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the application's context, which could lead to data exfiltration, session hijacking, or even full compromise of the user's mobile device. The vulnerability also enables unauthorized URL redirection, allowing attackers to redirect users to malicious websites or applications that could further exploit the user's trust. Additionally, sensitive information disclosure becomes possible as the application may inadvertently expose internal data or functionality through the improperly handled deeplink processing.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which addresses Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issues, and demonstrates how improper input validation can create dangerous execution paths. The attack vector described in the CVE follows patterns consistent with the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically targeting JavaScript execution within mobile applications. The exploitation mechanism also relates to T1566 for Phishing, as it requires user interaction through malicious URLs that appear legitimate. Organizations should consider implementing proper URL validation and sanitization techniques, including input filtering, parameter validation, and secure URI handling mechanisms. The mitigation strategy should include updating to version 6.3.20 or later, implementing proper deeplink validation checks, and conducting comprehensive security testing of all external URI scheme processing within mobile applications.