A recent report by cybersecurity firm Oversecured has uncovered a significant number of security vulnerabilities in popular Xiaomi Android devices. These flaws put user data at risk and affect commonly used apps and system components.
Widespread Vulnerabilities Pose Threat to User Data
The report identified a total of 20 critical security holes across various apps like Gallery, Mi Video, Bluetooth, Phone Services, and even core system settings. These vulnerabilities could grant attackers a range of unauthorized access, potentially leading to:
- Elevated system privileges: Hackers could gain access to and potentially manipulate critical system functions.
- Data theft: Sensitive user information, including phone data, settings, and even Xiaomi account credentials, could be stolen.
- Exposure of sensitive details: Information about connected Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi networks, and emergency contacts might be leaked.
Affected Apps and Components
The report details the specific apps and system components where these vulnerabilities reside. Here’s a breakdown of the affected areas:
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- System Apps: Gallery (com.miui.gallery)
- Mi Video (com.miui.videoplayer)
- Phone Services (com.android.phone)
- Print Spooler (com.android.printspooler)
- ShareMe (com.xiaomi.share)
- System Tracing (com.android.traceur)
- Settings (com.android.settings)
- Xiaomi-Specific Apps:GetApps (com.xiaomi.mipicks)
- MIUI Bluetooth (com.xiaomi.bluetooth)
- Security (com.miui.securitycenter)
- Security Core Component (com.miui.securitycore)
- Xiaomi Cloud (com.miui.cloudservice)
Specific Examples of Vulnerabilities
The report highlights a few concerning examples of the identified vulnerabilities:
- Leaking Sensitive Information: A flaw in the MIUI Bluetooth component could allow attackers to leak data about connected Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi networks, and even emergency contacts stored on the phone.
- Compromised Xiaomi Account Data: The Mi Video app was found to transmit Xiaomi account information, including usernames and email addresses, via broadcasts. These broadcasts could potentially be intercepted by malicious third-party apps.
- Unpatched Memory Corruption Vulnerability: Oversecured discovered a memory corruption vulnerability within the GetApps app. This flaw, reportedly identified over a year ago, remains unpatched, raising concerns about Xiaomi’s patching practices.
Root Cause: System Modifications by Xiaomi
Oversecured attributes these vulnerabilities to the modifications Xiaomi makes to the base Android operating system. These modifications, intended to add features and functionalities specific to Xiaomi devices, have inadvertently introduced security weaknesses.
Patch Timeline and User Recommendations
Oversecured responsibly reported the vulnerabilities to Xiaomi in late April. Users can expect software patches to be rolled out in the coming weeks or months. However, to minimize risks in the interim, it’s crucial for users to:
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly check for and install the latest software updates from Xiaomi to ensure your device benefits from the security patches once they become available.
- Maintain Security Awareness: Stay informed about potential security threats and exercise caution when installing apps or interacting with suspicious content.
By following these recommendations and staying updated on Xiaomi’s patching progress, users can help mitigate the risks associated with these vulnerabilities.
