CVE-2017-13210 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In CameraDeviceClient::submitRequestList of CameraDeviceClient.cpp, there is an out-of-bounds write if metadataSize is too small. 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: 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0, 8.1. Android ID: A-67782345.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-13210 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the Android camera subsystem that resides in the CameraDeviceClient::submitRequestList function of CameraDeviceClient.cpp. This issue specifically manifests when the metadataSize parameter is insufficiently sized, creating a condition where the application writes data beyond the allocated memory boundaries. The flaw exists at the kernel level within the Android camera HAL (Hardware Abstraction Layer) implementation, making it particularly dangerous as it operates within privileged execution contexts. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-787 as an out-of-bounds write, which directly enables arbitrary code execution capabilities through memory corruption techniques. The attack vector requires no user interaction, making it particularly concerning for exploitation in automated attack scenarios.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the camera service's metadata processing pipeline. When the CameraDeviceClient receives camera request metadata from applications, it validates the metadataSize parameter before processing. However, when this parameter contains a value that is smaller than the expected minimum required for proper metadata structure, the subsequent memory allocation and data copying operations fail to account for proper boundary constraints. This condition allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting critical data structures or even injecting executable code into the camera service process. The privilege escalation occurs because the camera service typically runs with elevated permissions to access hardware resources, making successful exploitation equivalent to gaining root access to the device.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code within the camera service context, which typically operates with system-level privileges and direct access to camera hardware. This enables a wide range of malicious activities including but not limited to persistent backdoor installation, data exfiltration from camera streams, and further escalation to full system control. The vulnerability affects multiple Android versions including 5.1.1 through 8.1, indicating a long-standing issue within the Android camera implementation that spans several major releases. This widespread impact means that a significant portion of Android devices deployed in enterprise and consumer environments remain vulnerable to exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-13210 primarily involve applying the official Android security patches released by Google as part of their regular security updates. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of these patches across all affected Android devices, particularly those running versions 5.1.1 through 8.1. Additionally, implementing runtime monitoring and memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization can provide defense-in-depth measures against exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers local privilege escalation through exploitation of system vulnerabilities, and T1543 which covers persistence mechanisms that could be established through code execution in privileged contexts. Device administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict camera service access and monitor for anomalous camera service behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The Android security model relies heavily on proper input validation and bounds checking, making this vulnerability a stark reminder of the importance of secure coding practices in system-level components.