CVE-2020-0179 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In doSendObjectInfo of MtpServer.cpp, there is a possible path traversal attack due to insufficient input validation. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is required for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-10Android ID: A-130656917
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/12/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-0179 resides within the Media Transfer Protocol (MTP) server implementation of Android 10, specifically in the doSendObjectInfo function located in MtpServer.cpp. This flaw represents a path traversal attack vector that emerges from inadequate input validation mechanisms. The vulnerability occurs during the processing of MTP requests where the system fails to properly sanitize file paths received from external sources, creating an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to manipulate file access patterns.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw exists in the MTP server's handling of object information requests where file paths are not adequately validated before being processed. When a malicious MTP client sends specially crafted file path parameters, the server may interpret these paths in unintended ways, potentially allowing access to files outside the intended directory structure. This weakness specifically affects the MTP protocol implementation that enables file transfer between Android devices and computers, making it a critical security concern for device integrity.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends to local privilege escalation capabilities, meaning that an attacker with access to the MTP service can potentially elevate their privileges to the system level without requiring additional execution privileges. This represents a significant security risk as it allows unauthorized access to sensitive system files and potentially enables further exploitation. The vulnerability requires user interaction for exploitation, typically involving the connection of a malicious device or the execution of specific MTP commands that trigger the vulnerable code path. The Android ID A-130656917 indicates this was tracked internally as a critical issue requiring immediate attention.
The exploitation of CVE-2020-0179 follows patterns consistent with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers "Local Privilege Escalation" through the manipulation of system services or protocols. Attackers would typically connect a malicious device to an Android 10 system and initiate MTP operations that trigger the vulnerable code path. The attack chain involves establishing the MTP connection, sending crafted file path parameters, and then leveraging the resulting path traversal to access restricted system resources. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation in system services and highlights how seemingly benign protocols like MTP can become attack vectors when proper security controls are missing.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-0179 should focus on implementing robust input validation mechanisms within the MTP server implementation. The primary recommendation involves strengthening the doSendObjectInfo function to properly sanitize and validate all incoming file path parameters before processing. This includes implementing strict path validation that prevents traversal sequences such as ".." or absolute paths that could bypass directory restrictions. Organizations should ensure that all Android 10 devices receive timely security updates from manufacturers, as this vulnerability was addressed through system patches that enhanced the MTP protocol implementation. Additionally, network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit MTP service exposure, particularly in enterprise environments where device management is critical. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and the need for thorough input validation in system services that handle external data processing.