CVE-2017-13184 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In the enableVSyncInjections function of SurfaceFlinger, there is a possible use after free of mVSyncInjector. This could lead to a local elevation of privilege enabling code execution as a privileged process with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Product: Android. Versions: 8.0, 8.1. Android ID: A-65483324.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-13184 resides within the SurfaceFlinger component of Android operating systems version 8.0 and 8.1, specifically within the enableVSyncInjections function. This flaw represents a critical use-after-free condition that occurs when the mVSyncInjector object is improperly managed during the graphics synchronization process. The vulnerability stems from a memory management error where a pointer to the mVSyncInjector object is accessed after the memory it points to has been freed, creating a scenario where arbitrary code execution becomes possible. The affected system component operates at a privileged level within the Android framework, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited to gain elevated privileges without requiring any user interaction or additional execution privileges. This use-after-free condition is classified under CWE-416, which specifically addresses the use of freed memory in software applications. The vulnerability allows for local privilege escalation because SurfaceFlinger operates with high privileges within the Android system, and the exploitation of this flaw can enable attackers to execute code with the same elevated privileges as the SurfaceFlinger process itself.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it fundamentally compromises the integrity of the Android graphics subsystem. When the enableVSyncInjections function is invoked, the improper handling of the mVSyncInjector object creates a window where memory corruption can occur, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution within the privileged context of the SurfaceFlinger service. The attack vector requires no user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited automatically by malicious applications or processes that have access to the system. This vulnerability affects the core graphics rendering functionality of Android devices, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate display synchronization mechanisms and gain unauthorized access to system resources. The implications align with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers the use of local privilege escalation techniques, and T1059, covering command and scripting interpreters. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete system compromise as the attacker gains access to a process that controls hardware graphics rendering and display management.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-13184 focus on addressing the underlying memory management flaw through proper code review and implementation of secure coding practices. Android security patches typically address such vulnerabilities by implementing proper reference counting or smart pointer mechanisms to prevent access to freed memory locations. Organizations should ensure immediate deployment of the relevant Android security updates that contain fixes for this use-after-free condition, as the vulnerability exists in the core system components that cannot be easily bypassed through application-level controls. The recommended approach includes applying the official Android security patches released by Google, which typically involve modifying the enableVSyncInjections function to properly manage object lifecycles and ensure that mVSyncInjector is not accessed after being freed. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing runtime monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous memory access patterns and potential exploitation attempts, though such detection mechanisms are limited by the nature of use-after-free vulnerabilities which often manifest as subtle memory corruption rather than obvious exploitation signatures. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-416 emphasizes the importance of thorough code audits and memory management reviews, particularly for system-level components that handle sensitive graphics and display operations.