CVE-2017-2721 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Certain Huawei smartphones with specific software versions are vulnerable to a security issue that allows bypassing the Factory Reset Protection (FRP) feature.

Understanding CVE-2017-2721

What is CVE-2017-2721?

Certain Huawei smartphones are susceptible to a security vulnerability that enables an attacker to bypass the Factory Reset Protection (FRP) feature.

The Impact of CVE-2017-2721

This vulnerability allows an attacker to log in to the configuration flow using Swype Keyboard and update the Google account, thereby bypassing the FRP function.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-2721

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in certain Huawei smartphones allows for bypassing the FRP feature, compromising device security.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
Affected Products: Berlin-L21, Berlin-L21HN, Berlin-L22, Berlin-L22HN, Berlin-L23, Berlin-L24HN, FRD-L02, FRD-L04, FRD-L09, FRD-L14, FRD-L19
Affected Versions: Berlin-L21C10B130, Berlin-L21C185B133, Berlin-L21HNC10B131, Berlin-L21HNC185B140, Berlin-L21HNC432B151, Berlin-L22C636B160, Berlin-L22HNC636B130, Berlin-L22HNC675B150CUSTC675D001, Berlin-L23C605B131, Berlin-L24HNC567B110, FRD-L02C432B120, FRD-L02C635B130, FRD-L02C675B170CUSTC675D001, FRD-L04C567B162, FRD-L04C605B131, FRD-L09C10B130, FRD-L09C185B130, FRD-L09C432B131, FRD-L09C636B130, FRD-L14C567B162, FRD-L19C10B130, FRD-L19C432B131, FRD-L19C636B130

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows an attacker to perform actions using Swype Keyboard to update the Google account, circumventing the FRP protection.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the affected devices to the latest software versions provided by Huawei.
Avoid using Swype Keyboard for sensitive actions on vulnerable devices.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor security advisories from Huawei and apply recommended security updates promptly.

Patching and Updates

Huawei has released security advisories addressing this vulnerability. Ensure timely installation of these patches.