CVE-2019-9265 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Bluetooth, there is a possible out of bounds read due to an incorrect bounds check. This could lead to remote information disclosure with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Product: AndroidVersions: Android-10Android ID: A-37994606
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/12/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-9265 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw within the Bluetooth implementation of Android 10 systems. This issue stems from an inadequate bounds checking mechanism that fails to properly validate memory access boundaries during Bluetooth protocol processing. The flaw exists in the core Bluetooth stack where incoming packets or data structures are parsed without sufficient validation of array indices or buffer limits, creating a potential pathway for unauthorized data extraction.
This vulnerability operates at the kernel level within the Android Bluetooth subsystem and demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-129, which addresses insufficient bounds checking in array indexing operations. The flaw allows for remote exploitation without requiring any user interaction or additional privileges, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where Bluetooth connections are frequently established. Attackers can craft malicious Bluetooth packets that trigger the out-of-bounds read condition, potentially exposing sensitive memory contents including kernel data structures, cryptographic keys, or other confidential information.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-9265 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the remote nature of the vulnerability means attackers can exploit it from arbitrary distances without physical access to devices. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1046 which describes remote service exploitation, and T1059 which covers command and control communications. The vulnerability affects all Android 10 devices and represents a significant threat to mobile device security, particularly in enterprise environments where Bluetooth connectivity is prevalent and device management is critical.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying the Android security patch released by Google, which includes proper bounds checking mechanisms and input validation for Bluetooth packet processing. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of the patched Android 10 update across all affected devices. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing Bluetooth access controls and monitoring for suspicious Bluetooth activity patterns. The vulnerability highlights the importance of robust input validation in mobile operating systems and demonstrates how seemingly minor flaws in core system components can lead to significant security implications. Security teams should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their Bluetooth-enabled devices and implement network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors.