CVE-2016-8467 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the bootloader could enable a local attacker to execute arbitrary modem commands on the device. This issue is rated as High because it is a local permanent denial of service (device interoperability: completely permanent or requiring re-flashing the entire operating system). Product: Android. Versions: N/A. Android ID: A-30308784.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/13/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-8467 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the Android bootloader component that fundamentally compromises device security integrity. This vulnerability exists at the lowest level of the operating system where the bootloader executes before the main operating system initializes, making it a prime target for attackers seeking persistent control over mobile devices. The flaw specifically enables local attackers to execute arbitrary modem commands, which can lead to complete device compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive communication channels. The severity classification as High reflects the permanent nature of the impact, as the vulnerability can result in complete device denial of service requiring full system re-flashing to remediate, making it particularly dangerous for both consumer and enterprise environments.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation and authorization checks within the bootloader's modem command processing functionality. When the bootloader handles modem commands during the boot process, it fails to properly authenticate or sanitize input parameters, allowing malicious code executed in the local environment to inject arbitrary commands that bypass normal security boundaries. This represents a classic case of inadequate input validation and privilege separation, where the bootloader operates with elevated privileges but lacks proper access controls to prevent unauthorized command execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the boot level, meaning it can be exploited before the operating system's security mechanisms are fully initialized, effectively rendering traditional mobile security protections ineffective during the critical boot phase.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for device users and organizations relying on Android platforms for communication and data processing. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized access to cellular modem functions, potentially enabling them to intercept communications, modify network connections, or even disable cellular capabilities entirely. The permanent denial of service aspect means that once exploited, the device may become completely non-functional without requiring full system reinstallation, which can be particularly problematic for enterprise devices or critical infrastructure communications. This vulnerability affects the fundamental device interoperability by potentially rendering the entire device unusable, requiring costly and time-consuming re-flashing operations that can disrupt business continuity and user productivity.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the ATT&CK framework, specifically within the privilege escalation and boot process categories where adversaries can establish persistent access through low-level system components. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-20 (Improper Input Validation) and CWE-78 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in OS Commands) as the root causes of the flaw. Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate firmware updates from device manufacturers, implementation of secure boot mechanisms, and enhanced monitoring of modem command execution. Organizations should also consider network-level monitoring to detect anomalous modem behavior and ensure proper device authentication protocols are implemented during the boot process. The permanent nature of this vulnerability underscores the importance of proactive vulnerability management and the need for robust security practices throughout the device lifecycle, particularly in environments where device availability and communication integrity are critical for business operations.