CVE-2022-42488 : Security Advisory and Response

A Missing permission validation vulnerability in OpenHarmony-v3.1.2 and prior versions allows a malicious application to elevate privileges, disable security features, or cause DoS by disabling services.

Understanding CVE-2022-42488

This section delves into the details of the CVE-2022-42488 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2022-42488?

OpenHarmony-v3.1.2 and earlier versions have a Missing permission validation vulnerability in the param service of the startup subsystem. An attacker with a malicious application could exploit this to escalate privileges to the root user, disable security features, or disrupt services.

The Impact of CVE-2022-42488

The vulnerability poses a high risk with a CVSS base score of 8.4 (High Severity). It affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability, allowing an attacker to execute various malicious activities depending on the exploited system.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-42488

Explore the technical aspects related to CVE-2022-42488.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the lack of permission validation in the param service within the startup subsystem of OpenHarmony versions prior to v3.1.2. This flaw enables unauthorized privilege escalation and impairment of security features.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts OpenHarmony-v3.1.x-Release versions up to 3.1.2, leading to potential exploitation by malicious actors.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through the installation of a malicious application on the device, thereby bypassing security measures and gaining root user privileges to manipulate services.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the strategies to address and prevent the CVE-2022-42488 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update their OpenHarmony software to version 3.1.2 or later to mitigate the vulnerability. Additionally, exercise caution when downloading and installing applications from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement robust security practices, such as regular security audits, network segmentation, and least privilege access control to enhance system resilience against potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Frequent software updates and patches are essential to address known vulnerabilities and reinforce the security posture of OpenHarmony systems.