CVE-2014-7911 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
luni/src/main/java/java/io/ObjectInputStream.java in the java.io.ObjectInputStream implementation in Android before 5.0.0 does not verify that deserialization will result in an object that met the requirements for serialization, which allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted finalize method for a serialized object in an ArrayMap Parcel within an intent sent to system_service, as demonstrated by the finalize method of android.os.BinderProxy, aka Bug 15874291.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/25/2022
The vulnerability described in CVE-2014-7911 represents a critical deserialization flaw within Android's java.io.ObjectInputStream implementation that affects versions prior to Android 5.0.0. This issue stems from insufficient validation during the object deserialization process, specifically within the ArrayMap Parcel handling mechanism. The vulnerability manifests when the system processes serialized objects through intents sent to system services, creating a pathway for malicious code execution. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it leverages the finalize method of android.os.BinderProxy, which is a core component of Android's inter-process communication framework. This allows attackers to craft malicious serialized objects that bypass normal security checks and execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper verification of deserialization requirements within Android's ObjectInputStream implementation. When deserializing objects, the system should validate that the resulting objects meet all necessary serialization criteria, but this validation is missing or incomplete. The vulnerability specifically affects the handling of ArrayMap structures within Parcel objects, which are used extensively for passing data between Android components and system services. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate the deserialization process by crafting serialized objects that contain malicious finalize methods. These methods are executed during the object lifecycle, allowing for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-502 as Deserialization of Untrusted Data, which is a well-known category of security flaws that can lead to remote code execution when proper input validation is missing.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-7911 is severe and far-reaching within the Android ecosystem. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted intents containing malicious serialized objects to system services, effectively bypassing Android's security model. The attack vector is particularly insidious because it operates at the system level, potentially allowing adversaries to gain root privileges or execute arbitrary commands on affected devices. This vulnerability is especially dangerous in environments where Android applications can receive untrusted input or when devices are compromised through other attack vectors that could lead to privilege escalation. The exploit can be triggered through various means including malicious applications, compromised network services, or even physical access scenarios, making it a comprehensive threat to Android device security.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-7911 must focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary solution involves upgrading to Android 5.0.0 or later versions where the vulnerability has been addressed through enhanced validation mechanisms in the ObjectInputStream implementation. Organizations should implement strict input validation for all serialized data received through intents, particularly when dealing with system services or inter-process communication. Security measures should include monitoring for suspicious serialized object patterns and implementing sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of potential exploits. Additionally, developers should avoid using potentially dangerous serialization patterns and implement proper access controls for system services that process external input. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables arbitrary code execution through the deserialization process, making it a critical target for defensive security measures and incident response protocols.