CVE-2024-45240 is a vulnerability affecting the TikTok Android application prior to version 34.5.5. The flaw resides in the application's exposed WebView component, specifically in the Lynxview JavaScript interfaces. Through deeplink traversal, an attacker can hijack these JavaScript interfaces, potentially allowing malicious code execution within the context of the app. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, manipulation of app behavior, or disruption of service. On Android 12 and later, exploitation is restricted to third-party applications, meaning an attacker must have an app installed on the device to leverage this vulnerability. The vulnerability does not require user interaction or privileges, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.4 reflects high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with a local attack vector and high attack complexity. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the potential for abuse remains significant given TikTok's widespread use. The vulnerability underscores the risks inherent in exposed WebView interfaces and the importance of secure deeplink handling in mobile applications.

This vulnerability can have severe consequences for organizations and individuals using TikTok on Android devices. Exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the app's WebView context, leading to data theft, unauthorized actions, or app disruption. For enterprises, this could result in leakage of sensitive user information or compromise of corporate devices if TikTok is installed. The fact that no user interaction or privileges are required (except for third-party app installation on Android 12+) increases the attack surface. Given TikTok's popularity globally, especially among younger demographics and in regions with high Android penetration, the impact could be widespread. Additionally, attackers could use this vulnerability as a foothold for further attacks or lateral movement within compromised devices. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not diminish the urgency for patching.

The primary mitigation is to update the TikTok Android application to version 34.5.5 or later, where this vulnerability is addressed. Organizations should enforce app update policies on managed devices to ensure timely patching. Additionally, restricting installation of untrusted third-party applications on Android 12 and later devices can reduce exploitation risk, as the vulnerability requires a malicious app to be present. Employing mobile threat defense solutions that monitor app behavior and detect anomalous WebView activity can provide additional protection. Developers should audit exposed WebView interfaces and implement strict deeplink validation to prevent traversal attacks. Users should be educated about the risks of installing unknown apps and encouraged to keep their applications updated. Network-level controls to monitor and block suspicious traffic originating from mobile devices may also help detect exploitation attempts.