CVE-2016-10339 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, HLOS can overwite secure memory or read contents of the keystore.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2020
This vulnerability exists within the Android operating system's kernel implementation, specifically affecting all Android releases that utilize the Linux kernel through the Code Aurora Forum. The flaw resides in the secure memory management mechanisms that govern how the Hypervisor Launch Environment (HLOS) interacts with protected memory regions. The vulnerability allows unauthorized access to secure memory areas that should be restricted to trusted system components only, creating a critical security risk for device integrity and user data protection.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management controls within the kernel's secure memory subsystem. The HLOS component can potentially overwrite memory locations that contain sensitive cryptographic keys, certificates, and other protected data stored within the keystore. This occurs due to insufficient validation of memory access requests and inadequate boundary checking mechanisms that should prevent unauthorized memory modifications. The vulnerability manifests when the HLOS attempts to access or modify secure memory regions without proper authorization checks, effectively bypassing the intended security boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it compromises the fundamental security model of Android devices. Attackers who can exploit this vulnerability gain the ability to read sensitive cryptographic material stored in the keystore, potentially leading to credential theft, encryption key compromise, and complete device takeover. The vulnerability affects all Android versions that utilize the Linux kernel through Code Aurora Forum implementations, making it widespread across numerous device models and manufacturers. This creates a significant risk for enterprise environments where device security is paramount, as it undermines the trust model that secure enclaves and hardware security modules are designed to provide.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-264, which addresses permissions, privileges, and access controls in software systems. It also corresponds to ATT&CK technique T1552.001, which covers credentials in files, as the compromised keystore contains sensitive authentication data. Additionally, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.001, representing command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation may involve executing malicious code to access secure memory areas. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including kernel updates, memory access restriction policies, and enhanced monitoring of memory access patterns. The recommended approach involves deploying security patches from device manufacturers, implementing additional access control layers, and conducting thorough security assessments of memory management components to prevent unauthorized modifications to secure storage areas.