CVE-2016-3843 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
Android before 2016-08-05 does not properly restrict code execution in a kernel context, which allows attackers to gain privileges via a crafted application, as demonstrated by the kernel performance subsystem and the Qualcomm performance component, aka Android internal bugs 28086229 and 29119870 and Qualcomm internal bug CR1011071.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/12/2022
This vulnerability represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in Android operating systems prior to the 2016-08-05 security patch release. The issue stems from inadequate kernel-level code execution restrictions that allow malicious applications to elevate their privileges and gain unauthorized access to system resources. The vulnerability specifically affects the kernel performance subsystem and Qualcomm performance components, making it particularly dangerous as it leverages hardware-specific optimizations that are commonly enabled on mobile devices. The flaw enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, effectively bypassing the operating system's security model and potentially compromising the entire device.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves exploiting weaknesses in how the kernel handles performance monitoring and optimization functions. Attackers can craft malicious applications that manipulate kernel performance subsystem calls to execute code in kernel context without proper authorization checks. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of kernel-level privilege escalation, which is classified as CWE-269 in the Common Weakness Enumeration framework. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel level where all system functions are accessible, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to establish persistent access or extract sensitive data. The attack vector typically involves leveraging legitimate performance monitoring APIs in ways that bypass normal security controls, allowing the malicious application to escalate privileges and gain root access to the device.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides attackers with complete control over affected devices. Once exploited, attackers can install malicious applications, access encrypted data, modify system files, and potentially create backdoors for persistent access. The vulnerability affects devices running Android versions prior to the 2016-08-05 patch, making it particularly dangerous for users who have not updated their systems. The fact that this vulnerability affects both the standard Android kernel performance subsystem and Qualcomm-specific components indicates a widespread impact across different device manufacturers and hardware platforms. This type of vulnerability aligns with the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation tactics, specifically targeting kernel-level operations to gain elevated system access. The vulnerability also represents a significant concern for enterprise environments where mobile devices may be used to access sensitive corporate data, as it could enable attackers to bypass mobile device management policies and security controls.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying the official Android security patches released on 2016-08-05, which address the kernel-level code execution restrictions. Organizations should implement comprehensive mobile device management policies that enforce timely security updates and monitor for devices running vulnerable Android versions. System administrators should consider implementing additional security controls such as application whitelisting and device hardening measures to reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and the risks associated with delayed patch deployment in mobile environments. Regular security assessments should include verification of kernel-level protections and performance monitoring subsystems to identify potential exploitation vectors. Device manufacturers and carriers should prioritize rapid deployment of security updates to protect users from known vulnerabilities that could compromise device integrity and user data security.