CVE-2022-28776 in Galaxy Store
Summary
by MITRE • 04/12/2022
Improper access control vulnerability in Galaxy Store prior to version 4.5.36.4 allows attacker to install applications from Galaxy Store without user interactions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/14/2022
The CVE-2022-28776 vulnerability represents a critical improper access control flaw within Samsung Galaxy Store application that affected versions prior to 4.5.36.4. This vulnerability stems from insufficient authentication and authorization mechanisms that govern application installation processes within the mobile ecosystem. The flaw allows malicious actors to bypass normal user interaction requirements typically mandated for application installation, effectively enabling unauthorized application deployment directly through the Galaxy Store interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the application's failure to properly validate installation requests and verify user intent before proceeding with application deployment. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specially formatted requests or manipulating the installation workflow to skip the standard confirmation dialogs and user consent prompts. This improper access control pattern aligns with CWE-285 which specifically addresses issues related to insufficient authorization checks and improper access control mechanisms in software applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized installations, creating significant security risks for end users and organizations. Mobile devices become vulnerable to malicious application deployments without user knowledge or consent, potentially leading to the installation of malware, adware, or other unwanted applications. This vulnerability particularly affects Samsung Galaxy Store users who may unknowingly have applications installed that could compromise device integrity, user privacy, or network security. The implications are especially severe in enterprise environments where mobile device management policies rely on proper application installation controls.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates a clear pathway for attackers to perform unauthorized application installations through the legitimate Galaxy Store interface, bypassing standard security controls designed to protect users from malicious software. This represents a significant deviation from expected security behavior and violates fundamental principles of mobile application security where user consent and explicit authorization should always be required for application installations. Organizations should consider implementing additional security monitoring to detect unauthorized application installations and establish proper patch management procedures to ensure all Galaxy Store installations are updated to version 4.5.36.4 or later. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and access control implementation within mobile applications, particularly those handling sensitive user operations like application installation and system modifications. Security teams should review their mobile device management policies and ensure proper controls are in place to prevent unauthorized application deployments through trusted app stores.