CVE-2016-6731 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the NVIDIA GPU driver in Android before 2016-11-05 could enable a local malicious application to execute arbitrary code within the context of the kernel. This issue is rated as Critical due to the possibility of a local permanent device compromise, which may require reflashing the operating system to repair the device. Android ID: A-30906023. References: NVIDIA N-CVE-2016-6731.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-6731 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the NVIDIA GPU driver component of Android operating systems prior to the 2016-11-05 security patch release. This weakness exists within the kernel-level graphics driver implementation and specifically affects devices utilizing NVIDIA Tegra processors. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and memory management within the GPU driver subsystem, creating a pathway for local malicious applications to escalate their privileges and execute code with kernel-level permissions.
The technical nature of this flaw involves a privilege escalation mechanism that allows an attacker-controlled application to gain unauthorized access to kernel execution contexts. This occurs through manipulation of GPU driver interfaces that lack proper access controls and validation checks. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-20: Improper Input Validation, specifically manifesting as a kernel-level privilege escalation vulnerability that bypasses normal security boundaries. The flaw enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the highest system privileges, effectively compromising the entire device's security posture.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to affected Android devices as it allows local malicious applications to achieve permanent device compromise without requiring user interaction or external attack vectors. The implications extend beyond simple privilege escalation, as the kernel-level access enables complete system control, including the ability to modify system files, disable security features, and potentially install persistent backdoors. Devices affected by this vulnerability may require complete factory reset or operating system reinstallation to fully remediate the compromise, making it particularly dangerous for end users who may not have technical expertise to address such issues properly.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is primarily through locally installed applications that can leverage the GPU driver's improper access controls. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068: Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, where adversaries exploit vulnerabilities to gain elevated privileges. The risk assessment categorizes this as critical because it eliminates the need for complex attack chains or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users may unknowingly install malicious applications. Organizations and users should prioritize immediate patching of affected devices to prevent exploitation, as the vulnerability provides attackers with direct path to complete system compromise without additional attack vectors or user interaction requirements.