CVE-2017-13322 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 01/18/2025
In endCallForSubscriber of PhoneInterfaceManager.java, there is a possible way to prevent access to emergency services due to a logic error in the code. This could lead to a local denial of service with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-13322 resides within the PhoneInterfaceManager.java component of Android operating systems, specifically affecting the endCallForSubscriber method. This flaw represents a logic error that can potentially disrupt access to emergency services, creating a significant security concern for mobile device users. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-284, which addresses improper access control mechanisms, and falls within the broader category of denial of service attacks that can be executed with local privileges. The issue stems from insufficient validation of subscriber identifiers during the call termination process, creating a pathway for unauthorized disruption of emergency communication channels.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the endCallForSubscriber method fails to properly validate or authenticate subscriber information before proceeding with call termination operations. This logic error allows an attacker to manipulate the method's execution flow in a manner that prevents emergency calls from being properly established or maintained. The flaw operates at the system level within the telephony framework, specifically targeting the subscriber management functionality that governs how different user profiles interact with the cellular network services. The vulnerability's design allows for exploitation without requiring any user interaction or additional privileges beyond those normally available to local processes, making it particularly concerning from a security standpoint.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-13322 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it specifically targets emergency service accessibility which can have life-threatening consequences. When exploited, this vulnerability can prevent users from making emergency calls to services such as 911, 999, or other critical emergency numbers, effectively creating a communication barrier during critical situations. The local execution requirement means that any application or process running on the device with basic privileges can potentially trigger this vulnerability, making it accessible to malicious software or compromised applications. This represents a significant risk to user safety and system integrity, as the disruption of emergency services can lead to delayed response times and potentially fatal outcomes in critical situations.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and authentication mechanisms within the PhoneInterfaceManager.java component. The recommended approach involves strengthening the subscriber identifier validation process in the endCallForSubscriber method to ensure that only legitimate subscriber requests can proceed through the call termination process. System administrators should implement regular security updates and patches to address this vulnerability, as the fix typically involves correcting the logic error within the telephony framework. Organizations should also consider monitoring for unauthorized access attempts to telephony services and implementing additional access controls that limit which applications can interact with emergency service functions. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499, which addresses denial of service attacks, and represents a critical security gap that requires immediate attention to maintain the integrity of emergency communication systems on affected devices.