CVE-2024-10474 in Focus
Summary
by MITRE • 10/29/2024
Focus was incorrectly allowing internal links to utilize the app scheme used for deeplinking, which could result in links potentially circumventing some URL safety checks This vulnerability affects Focus for iOS < 132.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-10474 represents a critical security flaw in the Focus for iOS browser application version 132 and earlier. This issue stems from improper handling of internal link schemes that should have been restricted to prevent unauthorized access patterns. The flaw allows malicious actors to exploit the application's deep linking mechanism by crafting specially formatted URLs that leverage the app scheme intended for legitimate navigation purposes. Such exploitation could enable attackers to bypass standard URL validation controls that are typically enforced to prevent potentially harmful navigation sequences within the browser environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the application's URL parsing and validation logic where internal link processing fails to properly differentiate between legitimate deep links and maliciously constructed URLs. When Focus for iOS processes internal links, it incorrectly permits the app scheme to be utilized in contexts where it should be restricted, creating a pathway for attackers to manipulate the application's navigation behavior. This misconfiguration allows for the execution of unauthorized deep link operations that could redirect users to unintended destinations or trigger unexpected application states. The vulnerability specifically affects the iOS platform and impacts versions prior to 132, indicating that this was a targeted issue within the application's deep linking architecture.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple navigation manipulation and could potentially enable more sophisticated attack vectors. Attackers could leverage this flaw to perform unauthorized redirects that might lead users to phishing sites or malicious content while maintaining the appearance of legitimate application behavior. The circumvention of URL safety checks creates opportunities for social engineering attacks where users might be tricked into visiting harmful destinations through seemingly legitimate deep links. This vulnerability represents a significant risk to user security as it undermines the browser's ability to enforce proper URL validation controls, potentially allowing for the execution of malicious payloads or the redirection of users to compromised websites.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-601, which addresses URL redirect vulnerabilities and improper URL validation mechanisms. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with attack patterns documented in the ATT&CK framework under T1190, which covers exploit public-facing applications. Organizations using Focus for iOS should prioritize immediate remediation by updating to version 132 or later where this vulnerability has been addressed. The mitigation strategy should include implementing proper URL scheme validation, restricting the use of app schemes in internal link processing, and establishing robust input validation for all navigation elements. Additionally, regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications that utilize deep linking mechanisms, as this represents a common pattern of security oversight in mobile application development.
This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and scheme handling in mobile browser applications. The flaw demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation details in URL parsing can create significant security risks when not properly addressed. The impact of such vulnerabilities extends beyond immediate exploitation potential to encompass broader trust and security implications for users who rely on these applications for safe browsing experiences. Security teams should implement comprehensive testing procedures that specifically target URL handling and deep linking functionality to prevent similar issues from emerging in future application releases.