CVE-2020-0104 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In onShowingStateChanged of KeyguardStateMonitor.java, there is a possible inappropriate read due to a logic error. This could lead to local information disclosure of keyguard-protected data with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-9 Android-10Android ID: A-144430870
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/15/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-0104 resides within the Android keyguard state monitoring mechanism, specifically in the onShowingStateChanged method of the KeyguardStateMonitor.java file. This flaw represents a logic error that enables improper data access patterns, creating a pathway for local information disclosure. The vulnerability manifests when the system attempts to monitor and manage the keyguard state transitions, where the flawed implementation fails to properly validate or sanitize access to keyguard-protected data during state changes.
The technical implementation defect stems from inadequate state management logic within the keyguard monitoring framework, where the system does not properly enforce access controls when transitioning between keyguard showing and hidden states. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-250 category of "Execute Code from Untrusted Location" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting local privileges to gain unauthorized access to protected system resources. The flaw allows for read operations on keyguard-protected data without requiring additional privileges or user interaction, making it particularly concerning from a security perspective.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it potentially exposes sensitive user data that should remain protected within the keyguard context. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to access keyguard-protected information without needing to perform any user interaction, which significantly reduces the attack surface complexity. The vulnerability affects Android versions 9 and 10, indicating it was present in major Android releases and could potentially impact millions of devices. The Android ID A-144430870 indicates this was properly tracked and addressed by Google's security team, though the vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the system's privilege management and access control mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-0104 should focus on implementing proper state validation and access control mechanisms within the keyguard state monitoring system. System administrators should ensure all affected Android devices receive timely security updates, as Google released patches for this vulnerability in their regular security update cycles. The fix typically involves strengthening the logic within the onShowingStateChanged method to properly validate state transitions and enforce appropriate access controls for protected data. Organizations should also consider implementing additional monitoring and alerting mechanisms to detect unauthorized access attempts to keyguard-protected system resources, particularly in enterprise environments where device security is paramount.