CVE-2017-0498 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A denial of service vulnerability in Setup Wizard could allow a local attacker to require Google account sign-in after a factory reset. This issue is rated as Moderate because it may require a factory reset to repair the device. Product: Android. Versions: 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1. Android ID: A-30352311.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/05/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0498 represents a significant security flaw within the Android Setup Wizard component that affects multiple versions including 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, and 7.1.1. This issue stems from improper handling of device state during factory reset operations, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by local attackers to manipulate the device's authentication requirements. The vulnerability specifically targets the setup wizard's behavior following factory reset procedures, where the system should ideally return to a clean state without requiring pre-existing Google account credentials. However, the flaw allows attackers to manipulate this process in such a way that subsequent device usage becomes contingent upon Google account verification, effectively creating a denial of service condition that renders the device unusable without proper authentication.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a weakness in the Android framework's handling of device provisioning states during factory reset operations. When a device undergoes a factory reset, the setup wizard should transition the device to a state where it can be configured without requiring previous account credentials. The flaw manifests when the system fails to properly clear or reset the provisioning state, leading to a scenario where the setup wizard incorrectly maintains references to previous Google account configurations. This behavior creates a condition where the device's authentication requirements are not properly reset, forcing users to provide Google account credentials even when they should not be required. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-284, which deals with improper access control, as it involves unauthorized manipulation of device provisioning states that should be protected from local user interference. The issue is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through local means without requiring network connectivity or complex attack vectors.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0498 extends beyond simple inconvenience to create genuine denial of service conditions that can render devices completely unusable. A local attacker who can execute code or manipulate system files can force a device into a state where it requires Google account sign-in even after a factory reset, effectively locking out legitimate users from accessing their own devices. This condition is particularly problematic in enterprise environments where devices may be lost or stolen, as it can prevent authorized personnel from properly resetting and reconfiguring devices. The Moderate severity rating reflects the requirement for a factory reset to repair the issue, which means that the attack vector is not trivial but still represents a significant usability and security concern. The vulnerability can be exploited in scenarios where an attacker has local access to a device, such as in cases of device theft or when users are unable to properly configure their devices after a reset operation. This condition violates the principle of least privilege and proper state management in device provisioning, creating a situation where legitimate device users are denied access to their own property.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0498 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities in device provisioning processes. Android security patches released by Google address this vulnerability by implementing proper state cleanup mechanisms during factory reset operations, ensuring that provisioning states are correctly reset and that authentication requirements are properly managed. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of available security updates and consider implementing additional security controls such as device encryption and remote management capabilities to limit the impact of such vulnerabilities. The fix typically involves modifying the setup wizard's handling of device state transitions to ensure that all account-related provisioning data is properly cleared during factory reset operations. Security professionals should also consider implementing device monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous provisioning states and alert administrators to potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability highlights the importance of proper state management in mobile operating systems and reinforces the need for comprehensive security testing of device provisioning and setup processes. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1489, which deals with Drive-by Compromise, as it involves manipulation of device provisioning states that can lead to complete device compromise. Organizations should also consider implementing device hardening procedures that limit local user privileges and ensure proper access controls are maintained throughout the device lifecycle.