CVE-2024-43093 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in Google Android. This vulnerability allows for a possible bypass of a file path filter designed to prevent access to sensitive directories due to incorrect Unicode normalization. The severity is reflected in its CVSS score of 7.3, indicating a high level of risk to organizations. If exploited, this vulnerability could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed, making it particularly concerning for users of affected Android versions.
The risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access to sensitive data stored on devices, as attackers may leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges locally. Importantly, user interaction is needed for exploitation, which adds a layer of complexity to the attack. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately, as the implications of this vulnerability could have significant ramifications for user data security.
The vulnerability was published on November 13, 2024, and is currently listed in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. This highlights its critical nature and the urgency for organizations to act. Failure to address this vulnerability could expose organizations to a heightened risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.
In light of the risks and the existence of this vulnerability in widely used Android versions, organizations are advised to implement mitigations as soon as possible. Ensuring that devices are updated to the latest security patches is essential in maintaining a robust security posture.
Vulnerability Details
In shouldHideDocument of ExternalStorageProvider.java, there is a possible bypass of a file path filter designed to prevent access to sensitive directories due to incorrect Unicode normalization. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 7.3, which is classified as high severity. The score indicates that the attack vector is local with a low attack complexity, low privileges required, and that user interaction is necessary. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts are all rated as high.
Affected products include various versions of Android from 12.0 to 15.0. The vulnerability falls under CWE-176, which pertains to improper handling of Unicode normalization.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the incorrect handling of Unicode normalization within the shouldHideDocument method of ExternalStorageProvider.java. This flaw allows attackers to bypass the file path filter that is intended to protect sensitive directories.
The attack vector is local, meaning that an attacker must have physical access to the device. The attack complexity is low, as it does not require sophisticated techniques or tools. The privileges required are also low; however, user interaction is necessary to exploit this vulnerability. The impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are all rated as high, indicating that successful exploitation could lead to significant data breaches.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world deployment risk associated with CVE-2024-43093 is substantial due to the widespread use of affected Android versions. Organizations utilizing these versions must recognize the potential for unauthorized access to sensitive information, which could have catastrophic consequences for user trust and data integrity.
The blast radius of this vulnerability is significant, impacting all users of the affected Android versions. Given the high CVSS score and the inclusion in the KEV catalog, organizations should address this vulnerability as a priority. This is underscored by the critical nature of the vulnerability, which requires immediate attention to prevent potential exploitation.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability. Implementing a robust vulnerability management program can help in identifying and addressing such vulnerabilities proactively.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | Yes |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The following versions of Android are affected by CVE-2024-43093: 12.0, 12.1, 13.0, 14.0, and 15.0. Organizations should ensure that they are running the latest patched versions of Android to mitigate this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations are urged to apply the latest security patches provided by Google to address this vulnerability. For those unable to apply patches immediately, alternative mitigations include restricting access to sensitive directories and monitoring for unusual access patterns.
Implementing security best practices such as regular updates, access controls, and user training will also help mitigate the risks posed by this vulnerability.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of unauthorized access attempts, especially related to sensitive directories. Behavioral anomalies in user activity should be flagged for review, and network signatures for known attack patterns should be implemented.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2024-43093 lies in its representation of potential weaknesses in file path filtering mechanisms across various systems. Security teams should take this opportunity to reassess their privilege escalation controls and file access policies.
This vulnerability highlights the importance of robust security architectures that can withstand attempts at privilege escalation. Organizations can benefit from adopting a proactive approach to vulnerability management.
Penetration testing methodology and continuous assessment of security controls will ensure defenses are up to date in the face of evolving threats.
A vulnerability management program that incorporates regular reviews and updates will also enhance the organization's ability to respond to emerging threats.
Red teaming services can provide additional insights into potential attack vectors and help organizations strengthen their defenses.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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