Popular Android Apps Including Xiaomi and WPS Office Susceptible to File Overwrite Vulnerability

Overview

Multiple popular Android applications, including Xiaomi’s default file manager and WPS Office, have been found vulnerable to a critical file overwrite vulnerability. This vulnerability allows malicious actors to overwrite arbitrary files on the affected devices, potentially leading to data loss, malware installation, or other malicious activities.

Affected Apps

The following Android apps are known to be affected by this vulnerability:

Xiaomi’s default file manager

WPS Office

Other apps that use the affected Android component

Technical Details

The vulnerability is rooted in an improper implementation of a file picker component used by the affected apps. By manipulating the input parameters, malicious actors can trick the component into overwriting arbitrary files on the device.

Impact

This vulnerability can have severe consequences for affected users, including:

• Data Loss: Malicious actors can overwrite critical system files or user data, leading to data loss and system instability.
• Malware Installation: Malicious actors can overwrite existing apps with malware, giving them access to the device’s resources and sensitive data.
• Other Malicious Activities: Malicious actors can use this vulnerability to perform a wide range of malicious activities, such as disabling security features or gaining administrative privileges.

Mitigations

Users of affected apps should take the following steps to mitigate the risk:

• Update Apps: Install the latest updates for the affected apps as soon as they become available. These updates will typically include patches for the vulnerability.
• Disable Affected Apps: If possible, disable or uninstall the affected apps until they have been updated.
• Be Cautious of File Picker Dialogs: When using affected apps, be cautious of file picker dialogs. Do not grant access to suspicious or untrusted files.
• Use a Mobile Security Solution: Consider using a mobile security solution that can detect and block malicious activities, including file overwrite attacks.

Conclusion

The file overwrite vulnerability in popular Android apps is a serious security threat. Users of affected apps should take immediate steps to mitigate the risk. App developers are strongly encouraged to update their apps and address this vulnerability as soon as possible.

Kind regards M. Martin.

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