CVE-2011-0291 in Blackberry Tablet Os
Summary
by MITRE
The BlackBerry PlayBook service on the Research In Motion (RIM) BlackBerry PlayBook tablet with software before 1.0.8.6067 allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted configuration file in a backup archive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/13/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0291 represents a privilege escalation flaw within the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet's service architecture, specifically affecting devices running software versions prior to 1.0.8.6067. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and security controls within the backup and restore mechanism of the device's operating system. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-264, which addresses permissions, privileges, and access controls, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 for local privilege escalation. The affected service processes backup archives without sufficient validation of the configuration files they contain, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate system permissions.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a local attacker crafts a malicious configuration file that gets processed during the backup restoration process. The flaw lies in the service's failure to properly validate file integrity and permissions within the backup archive, allowing arbitrary code execution with elevated privileges. When the system processes the crafted configuration file, it inadvertently grants the attacker elevated access rights, effectively bypassing normal security boundaries. This represents a classic case of insecure deserialization where untrusted data is processed without proper sanitization, enabling privilege escalation from standard user to administrative level.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over the device's functionality and data access. An attacker with local access can leverage this vulnerability to modify system configurations, install malicious applications, access sensitive user data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects the device's core security model, undermining the integrity of the operating system's permission system. Devices running software versions before 1.0.8.6067 are particularly susceptible as they lack the patch that addresses the improper validation of backup archive contents. This weakness is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where BlackBerry PlayBook devices may be used for business-critical operations, as it could lead to data breaches and unauthorized access to corporate resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0291 focus on immediate software updates to version 1.0.8.6067 or later, which contains the necessary security patches to address the validation flaw. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all devices receive updates promptly. Additional defensive measures include restricting local user access to backup operations, implementing strict file access controls, and monitoring for unusual backup activities. Network administrators should consider disabling unnecessary backup services when not actively needed, and organizations should conduct regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in their mobile device management systems. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in system services and highlights the need for robust security controls in mobile operating systems.