Developed by The Apache Software Foundation, Apache Cordova is a powerful toolset that empowers mobile app developers to harness native device functions, including cameras and accelerometers, from JavaScript. This versatile API platform allows for the creation of robust mobile apps using web technologies like CSS, HTML, and JavaScript. With support for multiple platforms, including Windows Phone, Android, iOS, Blackberry, Bada, Palm WebOS, and Symbian, Cordova is an attractive choice for developers seeking to build cross-platform apps.

However, a recent security vulnerability in Apache Cordova has sent shockwaves through the developer community. Identified by TrendMicro's Mobile Threat Research Team (TRT), this critical issue allows attackers to modify Android app behavior simply by clicking a URL. The potential impact ranges from complete app crashes to user annoyance, as undefined configuration variables can be exploited.

The security flaw arises from the lack of defined values in Config.xml for Android apps built using Cordova, creating an opportunity for threat actors to introduce secondary configuration variables. According to Apache Cordova, this vulnerability can result in unwanted dialogs and changes to app behavior, including forced closures.

Labelled as CVE-2015-1835, this security susceptibility requires specific conditions to be met: at least one app element must extend from Cordova's root activity – CordovaActivity – or the framework must be interfered with to compromise Config.java. Additionally, at least one of Cordova-supported preferences (except ErrorUrl and LogLevel) must not be defined in config.xml.

In a statement, TRT emphasized that this vulnerability is highly exploitable due to common developer practices. Many Cordova-based apps extend the "CordovaActivity" and few explicitly define all preferences, making them vulnerable. Moreover, all apps built using Cordova's Command-Line Interface (CLI) automatically meet the exploit prerequisites, rendering them susceptible.

The implications are far-reaching: an attacker may alter app appearance, inject popups, advertisements, and splashscreens into the interface, interfere with basic functionalities, or force app crashes. A staggering 5.6% of all apps in Google Play – mostly Cordova-based – are vulnerable to this exploit.

To mitigate these security issues, Apache Cordova is releasing version 4.0.2 of its API set, recommending that all Android applications built using Cordova 4.0x or higher be upgraded to use version 4.0.2. Developers using older versions can also upgrade to 3.7.2 to fix the same security issue.

While other platforms are not affected by this vulnerability, swift app development with Apache Cordova requires attention to security best practices. By staying up-to-date with the latest updates and utilizing secure coding techniques, developers can ensure their apps remain robust and resilient against potential threats.

Target Keyword: Swift App Development