CVE-2015-3844 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
The getProcessRecordLocked method in services/core/java/com/android/server/am/ActivityManagerService.java in ActivityManager in Android before 5.1.1 LMY48I allows attackers to trigger incorrect process loading via a crafted application, as demonstrated by interfering with use of the Settings application, aka internal bug 21669445.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-3844 resides within the Android operating system's ActivityManagerService component, specifically in the getProcessRecordLocked method located at services/core/java/com/android/server/am/ActivityManagerService.java. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that affects Android versions prior to 5.1.1 LMY48I, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate process loading behaviors through carefully crafted applications. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of process records during the activity management lifecycle, allowing attackers to exploit the system's process management mechanisms to interfere with legitimate application operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a race condition or improper validation within the getProcessRecordLocked method which governs how the Android system manages application processes and their associated records. When an attacker crafts a malicious application, they can manipulate the process loading sequence to cause the system to incorrectly load or manage process records, thereby disrupting the normal operation of system applications such as Settings. This flaw operates at the core level of Android's application management system, leveraging the underlying process management infrastructure to create unauthorized interference with legitimate system functions. The vulnerability's impact is particularly concerning as it allows attackers to gain unauthorized control over process loading behaviors, potentially enabling more sophisticated attacks or persistent system manipulation.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-3844 extends beyond simple application interference, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity of Android's process management system. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to disrupt critical system applications, potentially creating denial-of-service conditions or enabling more advanced attack vectors. The demonstrated interference with Settings application usage represents a particularly dangerous aspect of this vulnerability, as it affects core system functionality that users rely on for device configuration and security management. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with attack techniques categorized under the MITRE ATT&CK framework within the privilege escalation and defense evasion domains, as it allows adversaries to manipulate system processes to achieve unauthorized access or operational disruption. The vulnerability also corresponds to CWE-362, which addresses race conditions in concurrent programming, as the flaw likely involves timing issues in process record management.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-3844 primarily focus on updating to Android 5.1.1 LMY48I or later versions where the vulnerability has been patched. System administrators and security professionals should prioritize immediate deployment of the Android security update that addresses this specific flaw. Additionally, organizations should implement comprehensive application vetting processes to identify and prevent installation of potentially malicious applications that could exploit this vulnerability. The patch for this vulnerability typically involves strengthening the validation mechanisms within the getProcessRecordLocked method and implementing proper synchronization controls to prevent race conditions during process record management. Security monitoring should include detection of abnormal process loading patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability's exploitation may generate suspicious system behaviors that can be monitored through standard security information and event management systems. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date mobile operating system versions and the potential risks associated with legacy Android implementations.