CVE-2020-0010 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In fpc_ta_get_build_info of fpc_ta_kpi.c, there is a possible out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android kernelAndroid ID: A-137014293References: N/A
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-0010 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the fingerprint core trust application component of Android systems. This issue resides in the fpc_ta_get_build_info function located in the fpc_ta_kpi.c source file, where insufficient bounds checking allows for potential memory corruption. The vulnerability specifically affects the fingerprint authentication subsystem and demonstrates a classic buffer overread condition that can be exploited to gain elevated privileges. The flaw exists at the kernel level within the fingerprint core trust application, making it particularly dangerous as it operates with system execution privileges and can be leveraged for local privilege escalation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the absence of proper input validation within the fpc_ta_get_build_info function. When processing build information requests, the code fails to verify that data being written to memory buffers remains within allocated boundaries. This missing bounds check creates a scenario where malicious input can overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting critical system data structures or executing arbitrary code. The vulnerability's classification as a local privilege escalation issue indicates that exploitation requires system-level execution privileges but does not necessitate user interaction, making it particularly concerning for device security. According to CWE standards, this represents a CWE-787 Out-of-bounds Write vulnerability, which directly maps to the ATT&CK technique T1068 for escalation of privileges through kernel exploits.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-0010 extends beyond simple memory corruption as it provides a pathway for attackers to elevate their privileges within the Android system. This vulnerability enables local attackers with system-level access to potentially gain full administrative control over the device, compromising the integrity of the fingerprint authentication system. The exploitation process involves crafting malicious input that triggers the buffer overflow condition, which can then be leveraged to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. The vulnerability affects Android kernel versions and specifically targets the fingerprint core trust application, making it particularly dangerous as it undermines the security foundation of biometric authentication. Attackers can utilize this flaw to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors within the device's operating system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-0010 require immediate patching of affected Android kernel versions and implementation of proper bounds checking within the fingerprint core trust application. Device manufacturers should prioritize deployment of security updates that address the missing validation in the fpc_ta_get_build_info function. The recommended approach includes implementing robust input validation mechanisms that verify buffer boundaries before any memory writes occur, aligning with industry best practices for secure coding. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security monitoring to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The fix should include comprehensive bounds checking that validates all input parameters before processing, ensuring that memory operations remain within allocated buffer limits. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in kernel-level components, particularly those handling sensitive authentication data.