CVE-2016-10337 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, some validation of secure applications was not being performed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2020
This vulnerability represents a critical weakness in Android's security architecture where the Linux kernel implementation failed to properly validate secure applications across all Android releases from the Code Aurora Forum. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and authorization checks that should have been enforced during application installation and execution phases. This vulnerability allows malicious actors to potentially bypass security controls that are designed to protect sensitive system resources and user data.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and CWE-254, which addresses security weaknesses in the design or implementation of security features. The issue manifests when the kernel fails to adequately verify the authenticity and integrity of applications that are supposed to operate in secure contexts, potentially allowing unauthorized code execution or privilege escalation. This weakness exists at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it operates below the application layer where most security controls are typically implemented.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risks for Android devices as it undermines the fundamental security model that separates trusted applications from untrusted ones. Attackers could exploit this weakness to gain elevated privileges or access sensitive system components that should only be available to verified secure applications. The impact extends beyond individual device compromise to potentially affect entire ecosystems where secure applications are relied upon for protecting sensitive data and maintaining system integrity.
The vulnerability's exploitation potential is enhanced by its presence across multiple Android versions, indicating a systemic issue rather than a localized bug. This widespread exposure means that attackers can target devices running various Android releases without needing to tailor their approach to specific versions. Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper application validation mechanisms, strengthening kernel-level security checks, and ensuring that all secure applications undergo rigorous verification before execution. Organizations should also consider applying security patches promptly and implementing additional monitoring controls to detect potential exploitation attempts.
This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of comprehensive security testing at the kernel level and highlights the risks associated with insufficient validation of secure application contexts. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this under privilege escalation techniques where adversaries leverage kernel-level weaknesses to gain elevated system access. The security implications extend to data protection and system integrity, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for enterprise environments where Android devices handle sensitive corporate information and user data.