CWE-939: Improper Authorization in Handler for Custom URL Scheme

What is Improper Authorization in Handler for Custom URL Scheme?

• Overview: Improper Authorization in Handler for Custom URL Scheme (CWE-939) occurs when an application allows external actors to invoke a custom URL scheme handler without proper authorization checks. This can lead to unauthorized actions being performed within the application.

• Exploitation Methods:

• Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious URLs that invoke the custom URL scheme handler with unintended or harmful parameters.
• Common attack patterns include sending unauthorized requests that trigger sensitive operations or accessing restricted resources.

• Security Impact:

• Direct consequences of successful exploitation include unauthorized access to application functionality or data manipulation.
• Potential cascading effects might include data corruption, privilege escalation, or unauthorized actions affecting other system components.
• Business impact could be severe, including data breaches, loss of customer trust, and compliance violations.

• Prevention Guidelines:

• Specific code-level fixes involve implementing strict authorization checks within the custom URL scheme handler to ensure only trusted entities can invoke actions.
• Security best practices include validating input data, using whitelists to restrict allowed URL schemes, and avoiding sensitive operations through URL handlers.
• Recommended tools and frameworks include using mobile security libraries that offer proper URL scheme handling and employing security testing tools to identify vulnerabilities in custom URL implementations.

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Technical Details

Likelihood of Exploit: Not specified

Affected Languages: Not specified

Affected Technologies: Mobile