CVE-2020-0166 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In multiple functions of URI.java, there is a possible escalation of privilege due to missing validation in the parceling of URI information. This could lead to a local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-10Android ID: A-124526860
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/12/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-0166 represents a critical security flaw within Android's URI.java implementation that enables unauthorized privilege escalation. This issue stems from insufficient validation mechanisms during the parceling process of URI information, creating a pathway for malicious actors to elevate their privileges locally without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction. The vulnerability affects Android 10 operating system versions and has been assigned the Android ID A-124526860, indicating its severity and the need for immediate attention from security professionals.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of URI data structures during parceling operations, which are fundamental processes used for serializing and deserializing data objects within Android's inter-process communication framework. When URI objects are marshaled and unmarshaled through the parceling system, the missing validation checks allow for potentially malicious data to be injected into the system. This flaw operates at the system level where URI information is processed, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by applications or processes that have legitimate access to the system but lack proper authorization to perform elevated operations. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-220 as a weakness in the design of a system component that allows for unauthorized privilege escalation through data manipulation.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-0166 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can potentially allow attackers to access sensitive system resources, modify critical application data, or gain access to protected system functionalities. Since no user interaction is required for exploitation, the vulnerability can be leveraged by malicious applications already present on the device or through other attack vectors that can trigger the vulnerable code path. This makes the vulnerability particularly concerning in environments where multiple applications are running with varying levels of privilege, as it provides a consistent method for unauthorized elevation of privileges. The vulnerability affects Android's core system libraries and can be exploited across different application contexts, making it a significant threat to device security and user privacy.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation mechanisms during URI parceling operations, ensuring that all URI data is properly sanitized before being processed by system components. System administrators and developers should prioritize applying the latest Android security patches and updates that address this specific vulnerability. Additionally, implementing runtime monitoring and anomaly detection systems can help identify potential exploitation attempts by monitoring for unusual patterns in URI processing and privilege escalation activities. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves the exploitation of system privileges through legitimate system tools and processes. Organizations should also consider implementing application sandboxing and privilege separation mechanisms to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities, while maintaining proper security posture through regular vulnerability assessments and security audits.