CVE-2026-53418 in Zoom Workplace
Summary
by MITRE • 10/13/2026
Improper Authorization in Handler for Custom URL Scheme in Zoom Workplace for Android before version 7.2.1 may allow an unauthenticated user to conduct an escalation of privilege via network access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2026
The vulnerability identified as Improper Authorization in the handler for custom URL schemes within Zoom Workplace for Android prior to version 7.2.1 represents a critical security flaw that undermines the application's internal access control mechanisms. Custom URL schemes, often referred to as deep links or URI handlers, allow applications to be invoked from external sources such as web pages, other apps, or system notifications by mapping specific Uniform Resource Identifiers to actions within the app. In this instance, the handler responsible for processing these incoming requests fails to adequately verify whether the caller possesses the necessary privileges to execute the requested action. This lack of rigorous authorization checks creates a pathway for unauthenticated actors to interact with sensitive application functions that should be restricted to logged-in or privileged users.
From a technical perspective, the core issue lies in the absence of proper validation logic within the Android component managing these URL schemes. When an external entity triggers a custom URI associated with Zoom Workplace, the system routes the intent to the designated handler without sufficiently confirming the identity or permission level of the initiating process. This architectural oversight allows any application on the device, regardless of its trustworthiness or user authentication status, to send crafted intents that exploit this gap. By leveraging network access or local app-to-app communication channels, an attacker can construct malicious URIs that trigger privileged operations within Zoom Workplace without requiring valid credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant, primarily centering on the potential for privilege escalation. An unauthenticated user who gains control over a device where vulnerable versions of Zoom Workplace are installed can exploit this flaw to perform actions typically reserved for authenticated users. This could include accessing private meeting data, modifying account settings, initiating calls or meetings without consent, or potentially exfiltrating sensitive information stored within the application's local database. The ability to escalate privileges through network access means that if a user clicks on a malicious link in an email or web browser while using Zoom Workplace, they may inadvertently trigger these unauthorized actions, compromising their privacy and security posture.
This vulnerability aligns closely with CWE-269, which describes Improper Privilege Management, specifically where the software does not properly assign privileges to actors based on their authorization levels. Furthermore, it maps to MITRE ATT&CK technique T1059, Command and Scripting Interpreter, as attackers may use custom URIs as a vector for executing commands or triggering specific app behaviors remotely. The exploitation of deep links is also consistent with patterns observed in mobile malware campaigns where malicious apps hijack legitimate application handlers to perform stealthy actions on behalf of the attacker.
To mitigate this risk, users must upgrade Zoom Workplace for Android to version 7.2.1 or later, as these updates include patches that enforce stricter authorization checks within the URL scheme handler. Developers should implement robust input validation and ensure that all intents processed by custom URI handlers verify user authentication status before executing sensitive operations. Additionally, implementing intent filters with appropriate permission attributes can restrict which applications are allowed to invoke specific components of the app. Security teams should also monitor for unusual activity patterns involving deep link invocations and educate users about the risks associated with clicking unknown links while using privileged communication applications.