CVE-2020-0093 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In exif_data_save_data_entry of exif-data.c, there is a possible out of bounds read due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local information disclosure with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-8.0 Android-8.1 Android-9 Android-10Android ID: A-148705132
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/12/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-0093 resides within the exif_data_save_data_entry function in the exif-data.c source file, representing a critical out-of-bounds read condition that compromises the integrity of the Android imaging subsystem. This flaw manifests when processing EXIF metadata within image files, specifically during the data entry saving process where proper bounds validation is absent. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-129 as an Improper Validation of Array Index, which directly relates to the lack of bounds checking that should prevent access beyond allocated memory regions. The Android operating system versions affected span from Android 8.0 through Android 10, indicating a broad impact across multiple generations of the mobile platform.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires a malicious image file containing specially crafted EXIF metadata that triggers the out-of-bounds read condition when the system processes image data. While no additional execution privileges are required for exploitation, user interaction is necessary as the vulnerability typically manifests when a user opens or processes an image file containing the malicious payload. The out-of-bounds read allows for information disclosure, potentially exposing sensitive memory contents including cryptographic keys, personal data, or system information that could be leveraged by attackers for further exploitation. This vulnerability operates at the application level within the Android framework, specifically affecting the image processing pipeline that handles EXIF metadata.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-0093 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it represents a potential vector for more sophisticated attacks within the Android security model. Attackers could craft malicious image files that, when opened by victims, would trigger the out-of-bounds read and potentially leak sensitive information from the application's memory space. The vulnerability's presence across multiple Android versions indicates that organizations and users should be particularly concerned about their exposure, as the attack surface remains significant. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for the potential for information gathering through application-level memory access, and T1068 for privilege escalation risks that could arise from information leakage.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on both immediate patching and defensive measures. Android security patches released by Google address the root cause by implementing proper bounds checking within the exif_data_save_data_entry function, ensuring that all array accesses are validated before execution. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of the relevant security updates, particularly for devices running Android 8.0 through Android 10 where the vulnerability is present. Additionally, defensive measures such as implementing mobile device management policies that restrict image file handling, employing sandboxing techniques for image processing, and conducting regular security assessments of image processing applications can help reduce the risk exposure. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of input validation in image processing libraries and the critical need for thorough bounds checking in memory-intensive operations that handle user-supplied data.