CVE-2020-0283 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 10/14/2020
There is a possible out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check.Product: AndroidVersions: Android SoCAndroid ID: A-163008257
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/19/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-0283 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw affecting Android devices that utilize specific System-on-Chip (SoC) implementations. This issue stems from a fundamental missing bounds check within the system's memory management operations, creating a potential avenue for malicious exploitation that could compromise device integrity and user data confidentiality. The vulnerability specifically impacts Android operating systems running on certain SoC architectures, with the Android ID A-163008257 documenting the precise scope and affected components within the hardware-software stack.
Technical analysis reveals that the flaw occurs when the system processes data structures without proper validation of array or buffer boundaries before writing new data. This missing bounds check allows an attacker to potentially overwrite adjacent memory locations, leading to unpredictable behavior including system crashes, data corruption, or more severe exploitation outcomes. The vulnerability's nature aligns with CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write conditions where an attacker can write to memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries. This particular implementation flaw demonstrates a failure in the defensive programming practices that should prevent such memory corruption scenarios.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-0283 extends beyond simple system instability, as it creates potential pathways for privilege escalation and persistent malware deployment. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to gain elevated system privileges, potentially enabling them to access sensitive user data, modify system configurations, or establish backdoors for continued unauthorized access. The vulnerability's presence in SoC implementations means that even legitimate applications or system services could inadvertently trigger the exploit, making it particularly dangerous as it could be leveraged through seemingly benign operations. This type of vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' by utilizing system-level flaws to gain higher privileges than initially granted.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-0283 require immediate attention from device manufacturers and system administrators, with the most effective approach being the deployment of security patches provided by Google and SoC vendors. These patches typically implement proper bounds checking mechanisms and memory validation routines to prevent unauthorized write operations beyond designated buffer limits. Organizations should prioritize patch management processes to ensure all affected Android devices receive timely updates, particularly those in enterprise environments where security is paramount. Additionally, implementing runtime monitoring and memory protection features such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and heap-based buffer overflow protections can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. The vulnerability underscores the importance of comprehensive code review practices and adherence to secure coding standards, particularly in low-level system components where memory management errors can have catastrophic consequences for overall system security.