Source: cve@mitre.org
A local, authenticated attacker can bypass the passcode in the VideoLAN VLC media player app before 3.1.5 for iOS by opening a URL and turning the phone.
Authenticated attackers can bypass the passcode protection in vulnerable versions of the VideoLAN VLC media player app for iOS, potentially gaining unauthorized access to media files and user data. This vulnerability allows an attacker to circumvent the security measures designed to protect sensitive information on the device, posing a significant data breach risk.
Step 1: Authentication: The attacker must first have authenticated access to the iOS device, meaning they have physical access or have already bypassed other security measures to gain a user account. Step 2: URL Trigger: The attacker opens a specially crafted URL within the VLC application. This URL could be hosted on a local network or sent via a phishing attack. Step 3: Orientation Change: While the URL is loading or being processed, the attacker rotates the iOS device. Step 4: Passcode Bypass: The combination of the URL opening and the device rotation causes the passcode lock to be bypassed, granting access to the application's media files and settings without requiring the passcode.
The vulnerability stems from a flawed implementation of the passcode lock mechanism in VLC for iOS. Specifically, the application fails to properly handle the transition between the locked and unlocked states when a URL is opened and the device orientation changes. The root cause is likely a race condition or a logic error where the orientation change triggers a state change that bypasses the passcode check. The application may not correctly validate the passcode under this specific sequence of events, allowing unauthorized access. The flaw exists due to inadequate state management and improper handling of user input (URL opening) in conjunction with device orientation changes. This allows an authenticated user to bypass the intended security controls.
While no specific APTs are directly linked to this vulnerability, any threat actor with access to an iOS device could exploit it. The impact is primarily local, but the ability to access media files could be used to gather intelligence or exfiltrate sensitive data. Not listed in CISA KEV.
Monitor application logs for unusual URL access patterns, especially those involving external sources.
Analyze device logs for instances where the VLC application is accessed without a valid passcode entry, particularly after a URL is opened and the device orientation changes.
Network traffic analysis: Look for unusual network connections initiated by the VLC application, especially after a URL is opened. This could indicate data exfiltration.
Forensic analysis of the device's file system to identify unauthorized access to media files or settings within the VLC application.
Update the VLC media player app to version 3.1.5 or later.
Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies and application updates.
Educate users about the risks of opening untrusted URLs.
Regularly audit application logs for suspicious activity.
Enable two-factor authentication for the user account if possible.