CVE-2020-0271 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In the Settings app, there is an insecure default value. This could lead to local escalation of privilege and tapjacking with User execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-11Android ID: A-144507081
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/19/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-0271 resides within the Android Settings application, specifically manifesting through an insecure default configuration that creates a security weakness exploitable by malicious actors. This flaw represents a critical design oversight where default security parameters fail to adequately protect system integrity, allowing unauthorized modifications to system settings that should remain restricted to privileged users. The vulnerability specifically affects Android 11 operating systems and is catalogued under Android ID A-144507081, indicating its classification within Google's internal vulnerability tracking system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper default permission settings within the Settings application that permit user-level processes to manipulate system configurations without sufficient authorization checks. This insecure default value creates a pathway for local privilege escalation, where an attacker with minimal user privileges can potentially elevate their access level to gain administrative control over system functions. The flaw operates through a tapjacking mechanism, where malicious applications can intercept user interactions with system dialogs and settings menus, effectively tricking users into granting unauthorized permissions or making modifications that compromise system security. This tapjacking exploit requires user interaction to initiate the attack vector, making it particularly concerning as it leverages social engineering alongside technical exploitation.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-0271 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, creating a comprehensive security risk that could enable attackers to gain persistent access to affected devices. Local privilege escalation vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they allow attackers to bypass traditional security boundaries that separate user applications from system-level functions. The tapjacking component adds another layer of complexity by enabling attackers to manipulate user interface interactions, potentially leading to unauthorized system modifications, data theft, or the installation of malicious applications. This vulnerability directly impacts the Android security model's principle of least privilege and can compromise the integrity of system configurations that are fundamental to device security. The attack vector requires user interaction, but once initiated, the consequences can be severe as attackers can potentially modify critical system settings that affect device functionality and security posture.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-0271 should focus on immediate system updates and configuration hardening measures. Android users and administrators should prioritize installing the latest security patches released by Google, which address the insecure default values in the Settings application. System administrators should also implement additional monitoring controls to detect unauthorized modifications to system settings and user interface configurations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which describes insecure default permissions, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of their Android device management policies and consider implementing additional security controls such as application whitelisting, enhanced user interface monitoring, and regular security audits to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities. Device manufacturers and carriers should ensure that security patches are deployed promptly to affected devices, as the vulnerability represents a significant risk to device security and user privacy.