CVE-2017-0427 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the kernel file system 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. Product: Android. Versions: Kernel-3.10, Kernel-3.18. Android ID: A-31495866.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0427 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the Android kernel file system implementation. This weakness exists in kernel versions 3.10 and 3.18, affecting the core operating system functionality that governs file system operations and access controls. The vulnerability stems from improper validation mechanisms within the kernel's file system handling code, creating a pathway for local malicious applications to escalate their privileges beyond normal user boundaries. Such a flaw fundamentally compromises the kernel's security model and trust boundaries that are essential for maintaining system integrity.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of kernel file system operations that should normally be restricted to privileged processes only. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code within the kernel context, effectively bypassing all user-space security controls and access restrictions. The flaw typically involves improper handling of file system operations that allow unprivileged processes to trigger kernel code execution paths that should remain inaccessible to regular applications. This creates a persistent backdoor that can be used to establish permanent system compromise without requiring user interaction or external network access.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0427 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over the device's kernel execution environment. Once exploited, the malicious application can modify system files, install persistent rootkits, or manipulate kernel modules to maintain access across reboots. The severity classification as Critical reflects the fact that this vulnerability can lead to complete device compromise, potentially requiring full system reinstallation or reflashing to restore proper security posture. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it operates entirely within the local environment, meaning no network connectivity or user interaction is required for exploitation, making it highly prevalent in compromised device scenarios.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability primarily focus on applying the appropriate kernel security patches and updates provided by Android security teams. System administrators and device manufacturers must ensure that all affected kernel versions are promptly updated to versions containing the necessary fixes for the file system validation issues. The underlying cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-248, which addresses "Uncaught Exception in Kernel," and represents a failure in kernel exception handling that allows unauthorized privilege escalation. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to address this and similar kernel-level vulnerabilities, while also monitoring for any signs of exploitation attempts through anomalous kernel behavior or unexpected system modifications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the kernel as a critical attack surface that enables persistent system compromise when successfully exploited.