CVE-2016-0832 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
Setup Wizard in Android 5.1.x before LMY49H and 6.x before 2016-03-01 allows physically proximate attackers to bypass the Factory Reset Protection protection mechanism and delete data via unspecified vectors, aka internal bug 25955042.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2016-0832 represents a critical security flaw in the Android Setup Wizard component affecting versions 5.1.x through LMY49H and 6.x through 2016-03-01 releases. This issue resides within the Factory Reset Protection mechanism, which is designed to prevent unauthorized access to devices following a factory reset operation. The vulnerability allows attackers with physical proximity to bypass these protective measures, potentially enabling them to delete or access sensitive data without proper authentication.
The technical nature of this flaw involves unspecified vectors that enable attackers to manipulate the Setup Wizard process during device initialization or reset procedures. This weakness specifically targets the Factory Reset Protection system that was introduced to combat device theft and unauthorized data access. The vulnerability's impact stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the Setup Wizard that should normally enforce authentication requirements before allowing data deletion or device access operations.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk for Android users as it allows physical attackers to circumvent security protections that are fundamental to device security. The attack requires only physical proximity to the device, making it particularly dangerous in environments where devices might be left unattended or accessible to unauthorized individuals. This threat vector effectively undermines the core purpose of Factory Reset Protection, which is to ensure that only legitimate device owners can access data after a factory reset.
The security implications extend beyond simple data deletion to include potential data theft, device compromise, and unauthorized access to personal information stored on the device. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to gain access to sensitive data, reinstall malicious software, or perform other unauthorized operations that would normally be prevented by proper authentication mechanisms. This vulnerability represents a failure in the Android security model's layered defense approach, specifically in the authentication and authorization controls that should protect against unauthorized access during critical device operations.
The mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve updating to patched versions of Android that address the specific weakness in the Setup Wizard implementation. Organizations and individuals should prioritize immediate deployment of security patches released by Google and device manufacturers. Additionally, security awareness training should emphasize the importance of physical security measures and proper device handling practices. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and the potential risks associated with delayed vulnerability remediation.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 Access Control Issues and represents a specific instance of inadequate authorization controls within Android's security framework. The flaw also corresponds to ATT&CK technique T1490 Inhibit System Recovery, as it allows attackers to bypass system protection mechanisms designed to prevent unauthorized access during recovery operations. The vulnerability highlights the need for robust input validation and authentication controls in system setup processes, particularly those involving critical security functions like Factory Reset Protection. Organizations should implement comprehensive security monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain updated threat intelligence regarding similar vulnerabilities in mobile device security systems.