CVE-2020-9247 in Honor 20 Pro
Summary
by MITRE • 12/07/2020
There is a buffer overflow vulnerability in several Huawei products. The system does not sufficiently validate certain configuration parameter which is passed from user that would cause buffer overflow. The attacker should trick the user into installing and running a malicious application with a high privilege, successful exploit may cause code execution. Affected product include Huawei HONOR 20 PRO, Mate 20, Mate 20 Pro, Mate 20 X, P30, P30 Pro, Hima-L29C, Laya-AL00EP, Princeton-AL10B, Tony-AL00B, Yale-L61A, Yale-TL00B and YaleP-AL10B.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/13/2020
This buffer overflow vulnerability in Huawei mobile devices represents a critical security flaw that stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the system's configuration parameter processing. The vulnerability exists when user-supplied configuration parameters are passed through the system without proper bounds checking, creating an exploitable condition where malicious inputs can overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw specifically affects a range of Huawei flagship devices including the HONOR 20 PRO, Mate 20 series, P30 series, and several other models across different product lines. According to CWE-121, this vulnerability maps directly to stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient validation allows attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code. The attack vector requires social engineering to convince users to install and run malicious applications with elevated privileges, which aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data exfiltration. When successfully exploited, the buffer overflow allows attackers to gain elevated privileges and execute malicious code within the device's operating environment, potentially leading to persistent backdoor access, data theft, or further lateral movement within networked environments. The affected devices represent a significant attack surface given their widespread deployment in enterprise and consumer environments, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous. The requirement for user interaction through application installation introduces a human factor element that complicates defense strategies, as traditional network-based protections may not prevent exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on both immediate patching and operational security measures. Huawei should prioritize rolling out security updates that implement proper input validation and bounds checking for all configuration parameter processing functions. Organizations should implement application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized application installation and maintain strict device management protocols. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous application behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing endpoint detection and response solutions that can identify memory corruption patterns associated with buffer overflow exploitation. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, particularly in mobile operating systems where privilege escalation opportunities are limited but highly valuable to threat actors. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar patterns that might exist in other system components, ensuring comprehensive protection against similar vulnerabilities in the future.