CVE-2019-9428 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In the Framework, it is possible to set up BROWSEABLE intents to take over certain URLs. This could lead to remote information disclosure of sensitive URLs with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation. Product: AndroidVersions: Android-10Android ID: A-110150807
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/13/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-9428 resides within the Android framework and represents a significant security flaw that enables malicious actors to manipulate intent handling mechanisms. This vulnerability specifically affects the BROWSEABLE intent configuration, which is designed to allow applications to handle web URLs in a controlled manner. When improperly configured, these intents can be exploited to redirect or intercept URL requests, potentially exposing sensitive information that would otherwise remain protected. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-200, which deals with information exposure, and falls under the broader category of intent injection attacks that target Android's component communication system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the manipulation of intent filters within Android applications, particularly those configured with the BROWSEABLE flag. Attackers can craft malicious URLs that, when clicked by an unsuspecting user, trigger the compromised intent handling mechanism. This allows for the disclosure of sensitive URLs or web resources that should remain private or protected. The vulnerability requires user interaction for exploitation, typically through phishing emails, malicious websites, or social engineering campaigns that prompt users to click on seemingly legitimate links. The attack vector demonstrates the dangerous intersection of intent-based navigation and URL handling within Android's security model.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability presents a serious risk to user privacy and data protection, as it enables remote information disclosure without requiring any additional execution privileges or root access. The impact extends beyond simple data leakage to potentially expose sensitive user information, session tokens, or private URLs that could be leveraged for further attacks. The vulnerability affects Android 10 and represents a fundamental flaw in how the framework handles URL redirection and intent resolution. Security researchers have documented this issue as part of the broader ATT&CK framework's T1557 technique for "Adversary-in-the-Middle" attacks, where malicious actors intercept and manipulate network communications to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-9428 should focus on proper intent filter configuration and implementation of secure URL handling practices within Android applications. Developers must ensure that BROWSEABLE intent filters are properly restricted and validated to prevent unintended URL redirection. The Android security model recommends implementing additional verification mechanisms and avoiding overly permissive intent configurations. Organizations should also consider implementing user education programs to raise awareness about suspicious URL clicks and phishing attempts. Regular security audits of Android applications should include thorough reviews of intent handling mechanisms and URL processing code to identify and remediate potential vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure intent handling in mobile application development and the need for comprehensive security testing throughout the development lifecycle.