CVE-2015-9003 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In TrustZone a cryptographic issue can potentially occur in all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/24/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-9003 represents a critical cryptographic flaw within the TrustZone security architecture of Android devices. This issue affects all Android releases from the Code Aurora Forum (CAF) that utilize the Linux kernel, making it a widespread concern across numerous mobile devices. The vulnerability stems from improper implementation of cryptographic operations within the TrustZone environment, which serves as a secure execution environment for sensitive operations such as key storage and cryptographic processing. TrustZone technology is designed to provide hardware-level security isolation between the normal world and the secure world, but this particular flaw compromises that isolation through cryptographic weaknesses.
The technical flaw manifests in the improper handling of cryptographic keys and operations within the Linux kernel's interaction with TrustZone components. This vulnerability allows for potential cryptographic attacks that could undermine the security guarantees provided by the secure execution environment. The issue specifically impacts how cryptographic operations are performed and how keys are managed between the Linux kernel and the TrustZone secure world. Attackers could potentially exploit this weakness to extract cryptographic keys, perform unauthorized cryptographic operations, or bypass security measures that rely on proper cryptographic implementation. The vulnerability's presence in the Linux kernel means that it affects the fundamental security infrastructure that protects sensitive data and operations on Android devices.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-9003 extends beyond individual device security to potentially compromise entire ecosystems of connected devices that rely on TrustZone for secure operations. Mobile devices utilizing affected Android versions become vulnerable to attacks that could lead to data breaches, unauthorized access to encrypted information, and potential compromise of secure authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability affects not only the device's own security but also any applications or services that depend on TrustZone for secure processing. This includes secure payment systems, digital rights management, and other security-sensitive applications that rely on proper cryptographic implementation within the TrustZone environment. The widespread nature of the affected Android releases means that millions of devices could be potentially compromised, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for both individual users and enterprise security teams.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-9003 require a multi-layered approach addressing both software and hardware security considerations. Device manufacturers should implement kernel updates that correct the cryptographic implementation flaws within TrustZone operations, ensuring proper key handling and cryptographic operation execution. Security patches should be applied immediately to all affected Android versions from CAF, with particular attention to how cryptographic keys are managed between the normal and secure worlds. Organizations should also consider implementing additional monitoring and detection mechanisms to identify potential exploitation attempts, leveraging techniques aligned with the MITRE ATT&CK framework for mobile device security. The vulnerability's classification under CWE 310 (Cryptographic Issues) indicates that it involves weaknesses in cryptographic implementation that could be addressed through proper cryptographic design principles and adherence to security standards such as those defined by NIST SP 800-57 for key management and cryptographic operations. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to verify that the applied patches effectively resolve the vulnerability and maintain the integrity of the TrustZone security model.