An Instagram app Bug that Could’ve Given Hackers Remote Access to Your Phone

Cyber security + Global news 7 Defence todaySeptember 28, 2020 229 3 195 3

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According to the report, Check Point researchers disclosed details about a critical vulnerability in Instagram’s Android app that could have allowed remote attackers to take control over a targeted device just by sending victims a specially crafted image.

The most worrisome thing about this flaw is that it not only lets attackers perform actions on behalf of the user within the Instagram app but also includes spying on victim’s private messages and even deleting or posting photos from their accounts.

According to an advisory published by Facebook, the heap overflow security issue (tracked as CVE-2020-1895, CVSS score: 7.8) impacts all versions of the Instagram app prior to 128.0.0.26.128, which was released on February 10 earlier this year.

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According to Check Point Research, “This flaw turns the device into a tool for spying on targeted users without their knowledge, as well as enabling malicious manipulation of their Instagram profile,”

“In either case, the attack could lead to a massive invasion of users’ privacy and could affect reputations — or lead to security risks that are even more serious.”

After the findings were reported to Facebook, the social media company addressed the issue with a patch update released six months ago. The public disclosure was delayed all this time to allow the majority of Instagram’s users to update the app, thereby mitigating the risk this vulnerability may introduce.

Although Facebook confirmed there were no signs that this bug was exploited globally, the development is another reminder of why it’s essential to keep apps up to date and be mindful of the permissions granted to them.

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