CVE-2018-3988 : Security Advisory and Response

Signal Messenger for Android 4.24.8 may expose private information when using the "disappearing messages" feature, potentially compromising user privacy.

Understanding CVE-2018-3988

Signal Messenger for Android 4.24.8 has a vulnerability that could lead to a privacy violation when utilizing certain features.

What is CVE-2018-3988?

CVE-2018-3988 is a vulnerability in Signal Messenger for Android 4.24.8 that allows access to private information when using the "disappearing messages" function.

The Impact of CVE-2018-3988

The vulnerability poses a low severity risk, as it could disclose private information stored in the cache directory of Signal Messenger for Android 4.24.8.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-3988

Signal Messenger for Android 4.24.8 vulnerability details.

Vulnerability Description

When a user sends a photo using the "attach file" menu in Signal Messenger for Android 4.24.8, the image is stored in the cache directory, accessible to any installed application, potentially compromising the photo's privacy.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Signal
Version: Signal Messenger Android 4.24.8

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Unchanged
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: None
Privileges Required: None
Availability Impact: None

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2018-3988 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Avoid using the "disappearing messages" feature in Signal Messenger for Android 4.24.8.
Refrain from attaching files, especially photos, that may compromise privacy.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Signal Messenger to the latest version to patch known vulnerabilities.
Be cautious when sharing sensitive information through messaging apps.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates for Signal Messenger and apply them promptly to ensure protection against vulnerabilities.