CVE-2019-2228 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In array_find of array.c, there is a possible out-of-bounds read due to an incorrect bounds check. This could lead to local information disclosure in the printer spooler with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-8.0 Android-8.1 Android-9 Android-10Android ID: A-111210196
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-2228 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw within the Android printing subsystem, specifically in the array_find function located in array.c. This issue affects multiple Android versions including 8.0, 8.1, 9, and 10, making it a widespread concern across the Android ecosystem. The vulnerability stems from an incorrect bounds check implementation that fails to properly validate array access boundaries, creating a scenario where the system attempts to read memory beyond the allocated array limits.
The technical nature of this flaw places it squarely within CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array indices, and more specifically relates to CWE-125, which covers out-of-bounds read conditions. The vulnerability manifests in the printer spooler component, which is responsible for managing print jobs and handling print data processing. When the array_find function processes print-related data structures, the faulty bounds checking allows an attacker to potentially access memory locations that should remain protected, leading to information disclosure. This particular flaw is classified as a local information disclosure vulnerability because it requires no additional privileges beyond those normally available to an application, and no user interaction is necessary for exploitation to occur.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-2228 extends beyond simple information leakage, as it provides potential attackers with access to sensitive data that may be present in the memory locations accessed through the out-of-bounds read. The printer spooler component typically handles various print job data including document content, formatting information, and potentially user credentials or system identifiers. The lack of required user interaction makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited automatically without any direct user involvement, potentially allowing for passive data harvesting. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1005, which covers data from local system, and represents a classic example of how seemingly benign system components can become attack vectors when proper input validation is absent.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate system updates and patches from Google, as the flaw exists within core Android system components. Organizations should prioritize patch management for affected Android versions and consider implementing additional monitoring for suspicious print job processing activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in system components and highlights how memory safety issues in core libraries can affect multiple applications and services. Security teams should also implement network monitoring to detect unusual print job behaviors that might indicate exploitation attempts, while maintaining awareness of the broader implications of such vulnerabilities in Android's security architecture.