CVE-2019-15439 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

The Samsung XCover4 Android device, specifically the version samsung/xcover4ltedo/xcover4lte:8.1.0/M1AJQ/G390YDXU2BSA1:user/release-keys, contains a vulnerability that allows pre-installed apps to install new applications through an accessible app component.

Understanding CVE-2019-15439

This CVE entry highlights a security issue in the Samsung XCover4 Android device related to the com.samsung.android.themecenter app.

What is CVE-2019-15439?

The vulnerability in the com.samsung.android.themecenter app allows pre-installed apps to install new applications through an accessible app component on the device.

The Impact of CVE-2019-15439

The vulnerability enables any pre-installed app with the necessary permissions to install new applications, potentially leading to unauthorized app installations and security breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-15439

The technical aspects of the CVE-2019-15439 vulnerability are as follows:

Vulnerability Description

The Samsung XCover4 Android device with a specific build fingerprint contains the com.samsung.android.themecenter app that facilitates unauthorized app installations.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected device: Samsung XCover4 Android device
Vulnerable version: samsung/xcover4ltedo/xcover4lte:8.1.0/M1AJQ/G390YDXU2BSA1:user/release-keys
Vulnerable app: com.samsung.android.themecenter app (versionCode=7000100, versionName=7.0.1.0)

Exploitation Mechanism

Pre-installed apps on the device can exploit the vulnerability to install new applications through the accessible app component.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-15439, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor app installations and permissions on the Samsung XCover4 device.
Regularly review and update app permissions to prevent unauthorized installations.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict app vetting processes to ensure only trusted apps are installed.
Educate users on the risks of granting unnecessary permissions to apps.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Samsung to address the vulnerability in the com.samsung.android.themecenter app.