CVE-2024-20839 in Voice Recorder
Summary
by MITRE • 03/05/2024
Improper access control in Samsung Voice Recorder prior to versions 21.5.16.01 in Android 12 and Android 13, 21.4.51.02 in Android 14 allows physical attackers to access recording files on the lock screen.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-20839 represents a critical improper access control flaw in Samsung Voice Recorder applications across multiple Android versions. This security weakness affects devices running Android 12, Android 13, and Android 14, specifically when the affected Samsung Voice Recorder versions are installed. The flaw enables unauthorized access to sensitive audio recording files stored on devices when the device is locked, creating a significant privacy risk for users who rely on voice recording functionality for personal or professional purposes. The vulnerability stems from inadequate authentication mechanisms that fail to properly enforce access restrictions when the device screen is secured.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly validate user authentication status before granting access to stored recording files. When a device is locked, the voice recorder application should enforce strict access controls that prevent unauthorized users from accessing previously recorded audio files. However, the flawed implementation allows physical attackers to bypass these security measures and retrieve sensitive audio content directly from the lock screen interface. This improper access control mechanism violates fundamental security principles and creates an attack surface that can be exploited by individuals with physical access to the device.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privacy concerns to encompass potential corporate espionage, personal data breaches, and violation of user confidentiality. Attackers with physical possession of a locked device can immediately access all previously recorded audio files without requiring additional authentication factors or credentials. This risk is particularly concerning for users who store sensitive conversations, business meetings, or personal communications within the voice recorder application. The vulnerability affects a wide range of Samsung devices and operating system versions, making it a widespread security concern that impacts numerous users across different device types and Android versions.
Security researchers have classified this issue under CWE-284, which addresses improper access control vulnerabilities in software applications. The flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1531, which involves the use of unauthorized access to system resources, and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege in information security. Organizations and individuals using affected Samsung Voice Recorder versions should immediately implement mitigations to protect their sensitive data. The most effective remediation involves updating to the patched versions of Samsung Voice Recorder that address this access control vulnerability. Additionally, users should consider enabling additional device-level security measures such as strong biometric authentication, encryption of sensitive data, and regular security audits to minimize exposure to potential exploitation of this vulnerability.
The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper access control implementation in mobile applications, particularly those handling sensitive user data. Security professionals should ensure that voice recording applications and similar data storage systems implement robust authentication mechanisms that prevent unauthorized access even when devices are locked. This incident underscores the necessity for comprehensive security testing of mobile applications, including evaluation of access control mechanisms under various device states and security contexts. The affected Samsung Voice Recorder versions highlight the need for continuous security monitoring and prompt patch deployment to address newly discovered vulnerabilities in widely used mobile applications.