External risk intelligence

IOTransfer Arbitrary File Read Write Vulnerability.

CVE advisorySeverity: CRITICAL (CVSS 9.8)

CVE-2022-24562

The vulnerability affects IOTransfer, a consumer-focused utility application for file management between devices. While the software opens network ports for local connectivity, these services are intended for use within a local area network or point-to-point connection and are not typically exposed to the public internet.

Missing Authentication

Iobit Iotransfer

4.3.1.1561

Halo Surface Signal: 2 out of 5 — less likely to be public-facing.

External exposure likelihood

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

This advisory concerns a critical vulnerability in IOBit IOTransfer software that could allow an unauthenticated attacker to gain unauthorized access to a user's entire file system with administrative privileges. This could potentially lead to data theft and the execution of malicious code on an affected endpoint.

  • Attackers can read/write all files on a device.
  • It's a critical flaw with broad potential impact.
  • Confirm if this specific software is in use.

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An attacker, needing no authentication, can interact with the Airserv component of IOBit IOTransfer over the network. By sending specific GET and POST requests, the attacker can achieve unauthorized read and write access to any file on the victim's system, potentially leading to the theft of sensitive data or the execution of malicious code.

  • Unauthenticated network access required.
  • Attacker sends crafted GET/POST requests.
  • Full file system access and code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability could allow an unauthenticated attacker to gain arbitrary read and write access to the entire file system on a victim's endpoint. This could occur when the vulnerable service is running and accessible, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information.

  • System files could be accessed.
  • Network requests could lead to exposure.
  • Sensitive data may be stolen.

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

Given that this vulnerability affects a consumer utility application, responsibility likely falls on end-users or device owners to manage software updates. The first practical step is for users to identify if they have this software installed, confirm its accessibility, and then plan for remediation, potentially by seeking vendor guidance.

  • Identify affected devices.
  • Verify software installation.
  • Consult vendor for updates.

Supplementary metadata

Validate whether this threat affects your internet-facing exposure.

Halo Threat Intelligence helps prioritize remediation with Halo Surface Signal and H/A/L/O context. Start exposure validation with a free external attack surface trial.

Frequently asked questions

What is IOBit IOTransfer?

IOTransfer is a utility application designed for consumer-level file management, specifically allowing users to transfer photos, videos, and music between mobile devices and computers. The software includes a component called Airserv that facilitates this data exchange by opening local network ports to enable connectivity between devices.

What does CVE-2022-24562 mean for security?

This vulnerability is classified as CWE-306, which refers to a Missing Authentication for Critical Function. In simple terms, the software fails to verify the identity of anyone connecting to its Airserv component. Because authentication is bypassed, an attacker can issue commands that the system treats as authorized, resulting in unintended administrative access to files.

How is this vulnerability triggered?

An attacker triggers this flaw by sending specifically crafted network requests, such as GET or POST commands, directly to the Airserv component. Simply having the software installed is not enough; the service must be actively running and accessible over the network. Local application operations that do not involve these specific network communication pathways do not trigger the bug.

Is my device at risk based on Halo Surface Signal?

Halo Surface Signal indicates that the risk to your device is unlikely because IOTransfer is designed for local area networks or point-to-point connections rather than being exposed to the public internet. The software is not intended to be reachable by external, remote attackers, which significantly reduces the likelihood of this vulnerability being leveraged in typical home or office environments.

What should I do if I use IOTransfer?

Your first step is to confirm whether you have this specific version of IOTransfer installed on your system. If you identify the software, check the official IOBit support channels for any available updates or guidance. If the application is no longer needed, uninstalling it is an effective way to eliminate the risk posed by this component entirely.

References