CVE-2017-13158 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An information disclosure vulnerability in the Android system (activitymanagerservice). Product: Android. Versions: 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0. Android ID A-32879915.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/12/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-13158 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within the Android operating system's ActivityManagerService component. This vulnerability specifically affects multiple Android versions including 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, and 8.0, making it a widespread concern across the Android ecosystem. The issue stems from improper handling of system-level information within the ActivityManagerService, which is responsible for managing application activities and system processes. This component serves as a crucial interface between the Android framework and applications, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to extract sensitive system data.
The technical flaw manifests in the ActivityManagerService's insufficient validation of input parameters when processing certain system calls. This weakness allows malicious applications or attackers with system-level privileges to bypass normal access controls and extract information that should remain restricted to system processes. The vulnerability operates at the system level rather than at the application level, which means it can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious applications installed on the device or through compromised system services. The flaw essentially creates a pathway for unauthorized information extraction that violates fundamental security principles of information access control and data protection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable more sophisticated attacks that leverage the leaked information. Attackers could potentially use the disclosed information to craft targeted attacks against specific applications or system components, or to bypass security mechanisms that rely on the confidentiality of certain system parameters. The vulnerability's presence in multiple Android versions means that a significant portion of the Android user base remains at risk, particularly given the widespread adoption of these operating system versions. This information disclosure could facilitate further exploitation attempts including privilege escalation, application bypass, or even complete system compromise depending on the nature of the leaked information.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses the improper exposure of sensitive information, and maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1082 for system information discovery and T1063 for security software discovery. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous in environments where malicious applications can be installed. Organizations and users should prioritize immediate patching of affected Android versions, as the vulnerability represents a significant risk to device security and user privacy. The recommended mitigation strategy involves updating to patched Android versions, implementing application sandboxing measures, and monitoring for suspicious system activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, security researchers and organizations should consider the broader implications of such vulnerabilities in mobile operating systems and their potential for cascading effects across interconnected mobile applications and services.