Vulnerability identifier: #VU14292

Vulnerability risk: Low

CVSSv3.1: 6.4 [CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:L/E:U/RL:O/RC:C]

CVE-ID: N/A

CWE-ID: CWE-284

Exploitation vector: Network

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
WhatsApp Messenger for Android
Mobile applications / Apps for mobile phones

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.

Mitigation
Install update from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

WhatsApp Messenger for Android: All versions

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External links
http://research.checkpoint.com/fakesapp-a-vulnerability-in-whatsapp/

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Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

Yes. This vulnerability can be exploited by a remote non-authenticated attacker via the Internet.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability.