CVE-2020-9106 in P30 Pro
Summary
by MITRE • 10/12/2020
HUAWEI P30 Pro versions earlier than 10.1.0.160(C00E160R2P8) have a path traversal vulnerability. The system does not sufficiently validate certain pathname, successful exploit could allow the attacker access files and cause information disclosure.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/18/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-9106 affects Huawei P30 Pro smartphones running firmware versions prior to 10.1.0.160(C00E160R2P8). This represents a critical path traversal flaw that undermines the device's file system security mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from inadequate validation of pathname inputs within the mobile operating system's file handling processes, creating an exploitable condition that allows unauthorized access to sensitive system files and data. Such path traversal vulnerabilities typically arise when applications fail to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file system operations, enabling attackers to navigate beyond intended directories and access restricted content.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal attack vector where malicious input can manipulate file system access patterns. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specially formatted paths that bypass normal access controls and traverse the file system hierarchy to reach protected areas. The vulnerability specifically impacts the device's security model by allowing unauthorized file access that should normally be restricted to privileged system components or user-specific data. This type of flaw falls under the CWE-22 category of Path Traversal, which is categorized as a common weakness in software security that has been consistently identified in mobile operating systems and applications. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that mobile devices contain sensitive personal data, application credentials, and system configuration information that could be extracted through successful exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to access application data, system configuration files, user credentials stored in memory, and potentially even cryptographic keys used for device encryption. The implications are significant for device users who may have sensitive corporate or personal information stored on their devices, as the vulnerability could be leveraged to extract data without requiring physical access or complex attack vectors. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability provides a straightforward method to escalate privileges and access protected system resources, making it particularly attractive for threat actors targeting mobile device users. The vulnerability's presence in a widely deployed device model like the P30 Pro means that a substantial user base could be potentially exposed to data breaches and privacy violations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability center on applying the manufacturer's security patches and firmware updates that address the path traversal flaw in the device's file system handling. Users should immediately update their Huawei P30 Pro devices to firmware version 10.1.0.160(C00E160R2P8) or later to remediate this vulnerability. Security administrators should also implement network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts and consider device lockdown measures for users who cannot immediately apply updates. The vulnerability's remediation aligns with standard mobile security practices outlined in industry frameworks such as the NIST Mobile Security Framework, which emphasizes the importance of timely patch management and proper input validation. Organizations should also review their mobile device management policies to ensure that all endpoint devices are maintained with current security updates, as this vulnerability represents a persistent risk that could be exploited by adversaries with minimal technical expertise. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under the 'File and Directory Permissions Modification' technique, highlighting the need for proper access control mechanisms and input validation to prevent unauthorized file system access.