CVE-2023-42468 : Security Advisory and Response

A security vulnerability has been identified in the com.cutestudio.colordialer application for Android devices, potentially allowing a remote attacker to initiate phone calls without user consent. This CVE entry delves into the details of the issue and provides insights on mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2023-42468

This section will explore the nature of the vulnerability and its impact on affected systems.

What is CVE-2023-42468?

The com.cutestudio.colordialer application for Android devices is susceptible to a security flaw that enables a remote attacker to make phone calls without the user's permission. By exploiting improper export of the com.cutestudio.dialer.activities.DialerActivity component, a malicious third-party app can leverage intents to trigger unauthorized calls.

The Impact of CVE-2023-42468

The vulnerability in com.cutestudio.colordialer poses a significant risk as it allows attackers to initiate phone calls remotely, bypassing user consent. This can lead to privacy violations, unauthorized call charges, and potential disruption of service.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-42468

In this section, we will delve into the specifics of the vulnerability, including affected systems, exploitation mechanisms, and potential risks.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the improper export of the com.cutestudio.dialer.activities.DialerActivity component, which permits unauthorized apps to trigger phone calls via crafted intents.

Affected Systems and Versions

The com.cutestudio.colordialer application version 2.1.8-2 on Android devices is confirmed to be impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

A malicious third-party app, lacking necessary permissions, can send an intent targeting com.cutestudio.dialer.activities.DialerActivity using the android.intent.action.CALL action along with a tel: URI to initiate unauthorized phone calls.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2023-42468 and secure affected systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to be cautious while installing third-party apps and grant permissions judiciously. Avoid downloading apps from untrusted sources to minimize the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the com.cutestudio.colordialer application to the latest version, as developers may release patches to address security vulnerabilities. Stay informed about security best practices and be vigilant against potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Keep track of security advisories from the application vendor and promptly apply any patches or updates released to fix known vulnerabilities.