CVE-2024-34641 in Samsung
Summary
by MITRE • 09/04/2024
Improper Export of Android Application Components in FeliCaTest prior to SMR Sep-2024 Release 1 allows local attackers to enable NFC configuration.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/07/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2024-34641 represents a critical security flaw in the FeliCaTest Android application that existed prior to the SMR September 2024 security release. This issue stems from improper export of application components, specifically within the NFC configuration functionality of the application. The vulnerability allows local attackers who have already gained access to the device to manipulate NFC settings through the application's component exposure. The flaw manifests when the application fails to properly restrict access to its components, enabling unauthorized modification of NFC configurations that should otherwise be protected. This improper export behavior creates a pathway for attackers to potentially compromise the device's NFC capabilities and associated security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's AndroidManifest.xml configuration where components such as activities, services, or receivers are exported without appropriate permission restrictions. When components are exported without proper intent filters or access controls, they become accessible to other applications running on the same device. In the context of FeliCaTest, this misconfiguration allows local attackers to invoke NFC-related components that should remain protected within the application's security boundaries. The vulnerability operates at the application-level permission system where the lack of proper component isolation creates an attack surface that can be exploited by malicious applications or compromised user accounts. This flaw directly relates to CWE-732, which describes improper restriction of operations within a security domain, and falls under the broader category of insecure component configuration.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-34641 extends beyond simple NFC manipulation to potentially compromise the entire device security posture. Local attackers can leverage this vulnerability to modify NFC configurations that may affect secure communication protocols, payment processing, or other sensitive NFC-based services. The vulnerability creates persistent access vectors that can be exploited repeatedly, as the exported components remain accessible until the application is updated or the device is rebooted. Attackers could potentially use this to enable malicious NFC functionality, intercept NFC communications, or manipulate device behavior in ways that could lead to further privilege escalation or data compromise. The vulnerability's local nature means it does not require network access, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited even in isolated environments where network-based attacks are mitigated.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-34641 focus on proper component configuration and access control implementation. Organizations should ensure that all Android application components are properly configured with appropriate intent filters and permission requirements to prevent unauthorized access. The recommended approach involves reviewing all exported components in the AndroidManifest.xml file and applying the principle of least privilege to restrict access to only necessary applications or users. Security teams should implement component-level access controls using android:exported attributes with appropriate android:permission specifications. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security updates and patch management processes, as the issue was resolved in the SMR September 2024 release. Network security teams should also monitor for potential exploitation attempts through unusual NFC activity patterns and implement device monitoring solutions that can detect unauthorized component access attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which describes the use of local privilege escalation techniques and T1546 which covers event trigger manipulation, both of which can be facilitated through improper component exports.