#VU14292 Content manipulation in WhatsApp Messenger for Android
Published: August 9, 2018 / Updated: July 6, 2020
Vulnerability identifier: #VU14292
Vulnerability risk: Low
CVSSv4.0: CVSS:4.0/AV:N/AC:L/AT:N/PR:N/UI:N/VC:L/VI:L/VA:L/SC:N/SI:N/SA:N/E:U/U:Clear
CVE-ID: N/A
CWE-ID: CWE-284
Exploitation vector: Remote access
Exploit availability:
No public exploit available
Vulnerable software:
WhatsApp Messenger for Android
WhatsApp Messenger for Android
Software vendor:
WhatsApp
Description
The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to manipulate messages sent in both private and group conversations, giving attackers immense power to create and spread misinformation from what appear to be trusted sources.
The weakness exists due to an error when connecting to WhatsApp network and content decryption. A remote attacker can use the ‘quote’ feature in a group conversation to change the identity of the sender, even if that person is not a member of the group, alter the text of someone else’s reply, essentially putting words in their mouth, send a private message to another group participant that is disguised as a public message for all, so when the targeted individual responds, it’s visible to everyone in the conversation.
The weakness exists due to an error when connecting to WhatsApp network and content decryption. A remote attacker can use the ‘quote’ feature in a group conversation to change the identity of the sender, even if that person is not a member of the group, alter the text of someone else’s reply, essentially putting words in their mouth, send a private message to another group participant that is disguised as a public message for all, so when the targeted individual responds, it’s visible to everyone in the conversation.
Remediation
Install update from vendor's website.