CVE-2016-8399 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the kernel networking subsystem could enable a local malicious application to execute arbitrary code within the context of the kernel. This issue is rated as Moderate because it first requires compromising a privileged process and current compiler optimizations restrict access to the vulnerable code. Product: Android. Versions: Kernel-3.10, Kernel-3.18. Android ID: A-31349935.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/28/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-8399 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the Android kernel networking subsystem that could potentially allow a local malicious application to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. This vulnerability specifically affects Android devices running kernel versions 3.10 and 3.18, making it a widespread concern across numerous Android implementations. The issue stems from improper handling of network packet processing within the kernel's networking stack, creating a pathway for privilege escalation that could compromise the entire system integrity.
The technical flaw manifests in the kernel's handling of certain network packet structures that are processed through the networking subsystem. When a malicious application successfully compromises a privileged process, it can exploit this vulnerability to gain kernel-level execution privileges through a carefully crafted network packet manipulation. The vulnerability is classified as Moderate severity due to the requirement of first obtaining access to a privileged process, which serves as a significant barrier for attackers. However, this requirement does not eliminate the risk entirely, as once inside a compromised privileged process, the attacker can leverage this flaw to escalate their privileges to the kernel level. The vulnerability's exploitation is further constrained by current compiler optimizations that limit direct access to the vulnerable code paths, though this protection is not foolproof and can be circumvented by sophisticated attackers.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-8399 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain complete control over affected Android devices. This includes the ability to modify system files, install malicious applications, access sensitive user data, and potentially create persistent backdoors within the device's operating system. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security model of Android devices, as it allows local applications to bypass kernel-level security controls that are designed to prevent such unauthorized access. Organizations and users face significant risk when devices are running affected kernel versions, as this vulnerability could be exploited by malware or malicious applications that have already gained some level of system access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-8399 primarily focus on updating to patched kernel versions that address the specific networking subsystem flaw. Android device manufacturers should prioritize rolling out security updates that include kernel patches for versions 3.10 and 3.18, ensuring that users can protect their devices from exploitation. System administrators should monitor for security patches and apply them promptly, as the vulnerability can be exploited by applications that have already gained access to a device through other means. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers exploit for privilege escalation. Additionally, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of kernel security hardening and proper input validation within critical system components, as outlined in various cybersecurity frameworks and standards that emphasize the need for robust kernel-level protection against local privilege escalation attacks.