CVE-2017-0432 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the MediaTek driver could enable a local malicious application to execute arbitrary code within the context of the kernel. This issue is rated as High because it first requires compromising a privileged process. Product: Android. Versions: Kernel-3.10. Android ID: A-28332719.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0432 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within MediaTek driver components that operates at the kernel level within Android systems. This weakness stems from insufficient input validation and improper access control mechanisms within the driver code, creating a pathway for malicious applications to escalate their privileges from user-level execution to kernel-level operations. The vulnerability specifically affects Android devices running kernel version 3.10 and utilizes a MediaTek driver as its attack vector, making it particularly concerning given the widespread adoption of MediaTek chipsets in mobile devices. The issue requires initial compromise of a privileged process as a prerequisite, which aligns with the high severity rating since it represents a significant escalation in attack complexity and potential impact.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through improper handling of driver interface calls and insufficient validation of user-supplied data within kernel-space functions. Attackers can leverage this flaw by crafting malicious applications that interact with the vulnerable MediaTek driver through specific ioctl commands or system calls that trigger the privilege escalation mechanism. The flaw typically involves memory corruption or buffer overflow conditions that allow attackers to manipulate kernel memory structures, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the highest system privileges. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-119 which addresses weaknesses in the storage of data that can be accessed by untrusted code, and specifically relates to improper restriction of operations within a restricted environment.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0432 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and persistent backdoor access. Once an attacker achieves kernel-level execution, they gain unrestricted access to all system resources, including the ability to modify system files, extract sensitive data, install persistent malware, and bypass security controls. This vulnerability directly impacts the Android security model by undermining the isolation between user applications and the kernel, potentially allowing attackers to compromise device integrity and confidentiality. The attack surface is particularly broad given that MediaTek chipsets are utilized across numerous Android device manufacturers, making the vulnerability widespread and affecting millions of devices globally.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected MediaTek driver components and kernel updates from device manufacturers. System administrators and security professionals should prioritize applying the latest security patches released by MediaTek and Android vendors, as these typically include proper input validation and access control mechanisms. Additionally, device manufacturers should implement robust code review processes that identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in driver code, particularly focusing on memory management and privilege handling. The remediation process should align with ATT&CK framework tactics related to privilege escalation and defense evasion, ensuring that system configurations properly enforce access controls and monitor for suspicious kernel-level activities. Organizations should also implement application whitelisting policies and regular security assessments to detect and prevent exploitation attempts.