CVE-2020-0459 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Android WifiConfigManager.java allows for sensitive WiFi configuration data leakage in certain versions of Android.

Understanding CVE-2020-0459

This CVE relates to an information disclosure vulnerability in Android affecting multiple versions.

What is CVE-2020-0459?

In the WifiConfigManager.java file of Android, a missing permission check can result in the leakage of sensitive WiFi configuration data, leading to local disclosure of WiFi network names without requiring additional execution privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2020-0459

The vulnerability can allow unauthorized access to sensitive WiFi network details, potentially compromising user privacy and network security.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-0459

This section dives into the specifics of the vulnerability and its implications.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from a missing permission check in the sendConfiguredNetworkChangedBroadcast function of WifiConfigManager.java, enabling unauthorized access to WiFi network names.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Android
Versions Affected: Android-8.1, Android-9, Android-10, Android-8.0

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited locally without the need for user interaction, allowing an attacker to obtain sensitive WiFi configuration data.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems against CVE-2020-0459 involves immediate steps and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Android devices to the latest patched versions.
Monitor network activity for any suspicious behavior.
Implement network segmentation to limit access to sensitive data.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update system and application software to patch known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Google Android to address the CVE-2020-0459 vulnerability.