CVE-2022-44559 is a critical vulnerability identified in Huawei's HarmonyOS versions 2.0 and 2.1, specifically within the AMS (Ability Management Service) module. The vulnerability arises from a serialization/deserialization mismatch, classified under CWE-502. Serialization and deserialization are processes used to convert data structures or object states into a format that can be stored or transmitted and then reconstructed later. A mismatch in this process can lead to improper handling of data, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate serialized data to execute unauthorized code or escalate privileges. In this case, the flaw enables an attacker to escalate privileges without requiring any authentication or user interaction, as indicated by the CVSS vector (AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N). The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with a CVSS score of 9.8, marking it as critical. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, the severity and ease of exploitation make it a significant threat. The AMS module is a core component responsible for managing abilities (similar to services or apps) in HarmonyOS, so exploitation could allow attackers to gain elevated system privileges, potentially compromising the entire device or ecosystem. Given HarmonyOS's growing adoption in Huawei devices, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk to users and organizations relying on this operating system.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a serious risk, especially those using Huawei devices running HarmonyOS 2.0 or 2.1, including smartphones, IoT devices, and other embedded systems. Successful exploitation could lead to privilege escalation, allowing attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, install persistent malware, or disrupt device functionality. This could compromise corporate data confidentiality and integrity, disrupt business operations, and potentially provide a foothold for further network intrusion. The critical nature of the vulnerability means that even devices without user interaction or authentication can be compromised remotely, increasing the attack surface. Organizations in sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure that may deploy Huawei hardware are particularly at risk. Additionally, the lack of available patches at the time of publication increases exposure. The vulnerability could also impact supply chain security if compromised devices are integrated into broader enterprise environments.

Given the absence of official patches at the time of reporting, European organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. These include: 1) Conducting an inventory of all Huawei devices running HarmonyOS 2.0 or 2.1 to identify vulnerable endpoints. 2) Restricting network access to these devices, especially limiting exposure to untrusted networks and isolating them within segmented network zones. 3) Monitoring device behavior for anomalies indicative of privilege escalation attempts, using endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools tailored for HarmonyOS if available. 4) Applying strict application whitelisting and privilege management policies to minimize the impact of potential exploitation. 5) Engaging with Huawei support channels to obtain updates on patch availability and applying them promptly once released. 6) Educating IT and security teams about the vulnerability to ensure rapid incident response. 7) Considering temporary replacement or reduction of reliance on vulnerable devices in critical environments until patches are available.