Search
Close this search box.

AutoSpill Vulnerability Hits Android

Share:

A new vulnerability known as AutoSpill has emerged. It affects password managers, which are supposed to securely manage and autofill our login details. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening: 

What is the AutoSpill Vulnerability? 

AutoSpill is a security gap that affects the way password managers on Android devices handle autofill operations. Normally, when you log into a service, your password manager automatically fills in your credentials. This process is supposed to be secure. However, researchers have found that due to a lack of strict enforcement of security measures by Android, sensitive information could be captured by malicious applications. 

How Does It Work? 

Password managers typically use something called a ‘WebView’ – a component that allows them to display web content within the app. It’s like having a browser inside the application. When you use the autofill feature, your password manager uses this WebView to input your credentials into login forms. 

The problem arises when a malicious app mimics a login page to trick the autofill service into revealing your information. This can happen even without the need for complex techniques like JavaScript injection, which is often employed by attackers to steal information. 

How AutoSpill Operates 

  1. When logging into a service, password managers typically use WebView to display web content within apps. 
  2. During login, these managers automatically populate your credentials using this WebView component. 
  3. Malicious apps can pose as legitimate services to deceive the autofill feature into releasing your details. 
  4. The exploit can occur without the sophisticated hacking methods like JavaScript injection, making it stealthy and hard to detect. 

Scope and Severity 

Although these applications are considered reliable, AutoSpill reveals that even the most secure software can be susceptible to novel threats. The breadth of the issue was confirmed through testing, with some managers leaking user data without any JavaScript injection. 

Comparison of Android password managers' susceptibility to AutoSpill without JavaScript support, as analysed in the Black Hat Europe research presentation. (Source)

Proactive Measures and Fixes 

Considering the AutoSpill vulnerability, developers are actively updating password managers to address this issue. For users, it is important to regularly update these applications and be vigilant about the permissions you grant to apps. 

Looking Ahead 

With threats like AutoSpill coming to light, making sure you stay informed is key to protecting your credentials. Our blog will focus on providing you with detailed, actionable updates on these emerging challenges. To keep you informed and prepared, our security blog provides regular, detailed updates on current vulnerabilities. 

Picture of Ahmed Khanji

Ahmed Khanji

Ahmed Khanji is the CEO of Gridware, a leading cybersecurity consultancy based in Sydney, Australia. An emerging thought leader in cybersecurity, Ahmed is an Adjunct Professor at Western Sydney University and regularly contributes to cybersecurity conversations in Australia. As well as his extensive background as a security advisor to large Australian Enterprises, he is a regular keynote speaker and guest lecturer on offensive cybersecurity topics and blockchain.

Contact

Sydney Offices
Level 12, Suite 6
189 Kent Street
Sydney NSW 2000
1300 211 235

Melbourne Offices
Level 13, 114 William Street
Melbourne, VIC 3000
1300 211 235

Perth Offices
Level 32, 152 St Georges Terrace
Perth WA 6000
1300 211 235

Company

Learn more about the team at the forefront of the Australian Cyber Security scene.

About Us →

Meet the Team →

Partnerships →

Learn more about the team at the forefront of the Australian Cyber Security scene.

Career Opportunities →

Internships →

Media appearances and contributions by Gridware and our staff.

See More →

Services

Services

Whether you need us to take care of security for you, respond to incidents, or provide consulting advice, we help you stay protected.

View all services →

Web App Pen. Test Calculator →

Network Pen. Test Calculator →

Governance & Audit

Legal and regulatory protection

Penetration Testing

Uncover system vulnerabilities

Remote Working & Phishing

Fortify your defenses

Cyber Security Strategy

Adaptation to evolving threats

Cloud & Infrastructure

Secure cloud computing solutions

Gridware 360

End-to-end security suite

Gridware Managed Services

Comprehensive & proactive security

Gridware CloudControl
360

Harness the benefits of cloud technology

Gridware Incident Response 24/7

Swift, expert-led incident resolution

Solutions
Resources

Resources

A collection of our published insights, whitepapers, customer success stories and more.

Customer success stories from real Gridware customers. Find out how we have helped others stay on top of their Cyber Security.

Read More →