CVE-2019-16243 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2019-16243 affecting TCL Alcatel Cingular Flip 2 B9HUAH1 devices. Understand the security risk, impact, and mitigation steps to secure firmware settings.
TCL Alcatel Cingular Flip 2 B9HUAH1 devices contain an undocumented web API that allows unprivileged JavaScript to access and modify firmware settings, potentially leading to unauthorized firmware updates.
Understanding CVE-2019-16243
This CVE identifies a security vulnerability in TCL Alcatel Cingular Flip 2 B9HUAH1 devices that could be exploited by unprivileged JavaScript to manipulate firmware settings.
What is CVE-2019-16243?
The vulnerability involves an undocumented web API on the mentioned devices that permits unauthorized access to firmware over-the-air update settings, typically used for firmware updates.
The Impact of CVE-2019-16243
The vulnerability could allow malicious actors to tamper with firmware settings, potentially leading to unauthorized firmware updates and compromising device security.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-16243
TCL Alcatel Cingular Flip 2 B9HUAH1 devices are affected by this security flaw, allowing unprivileged JavaScript to exploit the undocumented web API.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability enables unprivileged JavaScript, including that from the KaiOS browser, to access and modify firmware over-the-air update settings.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: TCL Alcatel Cingular Flip 2 B9HUAH1
- Vendor: TCL
- Versions: All versions are affected
Exploitation Mechanism
The system application typically uses the web API to trigger firmware updates through OmaService.js, but unauthorized JavaScript can exploit this functionality.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2019-16243, users and organizations should take immediate and long-term security measures.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Disable the undocumented web API if possible
- Monitor firmware update settings for unauthorized changes
- Implement network-level security controls
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update device firmware to patch vulnerabilities
- Conduct security audits to identify and address potential weaknesses
Patching and Updates
- Apply firmware updates provided by TCL to address the vulnerability