CVE-2015-6607 in iTunes
Summary
by MITRE
SQLite before 3.8.9, as used in Android before 5.1.1 LMY48T, allows attackers to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka internal bug 20099586.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-6607 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within SQLite database components that were widely deployed across Android systems. This issue specifically affects SQLite versions prior to 3.8.9 and impacts Android versions before 5.1.1 LMY48T, creating a significant security risk for mobile device users and organizations relying on these platforms. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of database operations that allows malicious applications to exploit underlying system privileges, potentially enabling unauthorized access to sensitive system resources and data.
The technical flaw manifests through a privilege escalation mechanism that leverages the SQLite database engine's handling of certain database operations within the Android framework. Attackers can craft malicious applications that exploit the database engine's insufficient validation of file permissions and access controls, allowing them to elevate their privileges from standard application level to system-level access. This occurs because the vulnerable SQLite implementation fails to properly enforce security boundaries when processing database files, particularly those that may be manipulated through crafted input or file operations. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-264 as a weakness in permissions, privileges, and access controls, specifically involving inadequate privilege management within database operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data compromise, as it enables attackers to gain full system-level privileges and potentially access all device resources including user data, communication channels, and other applications. Mobile device users face significant risk as malicious applications can exploit this vulnerability to install persistent backdoors, extract sensitive information, or even take complete control of the device. Organizations deploying Android-based systems for enterprise use are particularly vulnerable, as this flaw could allow attackers to compromise multiple devices within a network and potentially establish persistent access points for further attacks. The vulnerability's presence in widely deployed Android versions means that billions of devices were potentially at risk, creating a substantial attack surface for threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-6607 primarily focus on immediate system updates and patches to upgrade SQLite to version 3.8.9 or later. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all affected Android devices are updated to Android 5.1.1 LMY48T or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. System administrators should also implement application whitelisting policies to prevent installation of untrusted applications that could exploit this vulnerability. Additional protective measures include monitoring for suspicious database access patterns, implementing network segmentation to limit lateral movement, and conducting regular security assessments of mobile device environments. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1068 suggests that attackers may leverage this privilege escalation for further system compromise, making layered defense strategies essential for comprehensive protection against exploitation attempts.