CVE-2020-0376 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 10/14/2020
There is a possible out of bounds read due to a missing bounds check.Product: AndroidVersions: Android SoCAndroid ID: A-163003156
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/19/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-0376 represents a critical out-of-bounds read condition that affects Android-based systems, specifically targeting Android SoC implementations. This flaw manifests as a missing bounds check within the system's memory management operations, creating a potential vector for unauthorized data access and system compromise. The vulnerability resides in the underlying hardware-software integration layers of Android devices, particularly impacting the system on which the Android ID A-163003156 is associated. Such issues typically arise from insufficient validation of array indices or buffer boundaries during memory operations, creating opportunities for attackers to access memory locations beyond intended limits.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the Android operating system's memory handling subsystem. When the system processes memory operations without proper boundary checks, it allows for potential access to adjacent memory regions that should remain protected. This condition specifically affects Android SoC implementations where the hardware components interact with the operating system's memory management functions. The missing bounds check creates a scenario where malicious actors could potentially exploit the system by crafting inputs that trigger memory access violations, leading to information disclosure or system instability.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to Android device security and user privacy. The out-of-bounds read condition could potentially expose sensitive system information, including kernel memory contents, cryptographic keys, or personal data stored in adjacent memory regions. Attackers could leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to system resources, potentially escalating privileges or extracting confidential information. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security posture of affected devices, as it operates at a low-level system component that is integral to normal device operation. This makes exploitation relatively straightforward and increases the attack surface across all Android devices implementing the vulnerable SoC architecture.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-0376 should prioritize immediate patch deployment from device manufacturers, as this vulnerability affects core system components that cannot be adequately protected through user-level configurations alone. Security teams should implement comprehensive monitoring for unusual memory access patterns and potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which specifically addresses improper validation of array indices, and may map to ATT&CK technique T1059 for privilege escalation through memory corruption. Device manufacturers must ensure that all firmware updates include proper bounds checking mechanisms and thorough testing of memory management functions. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network-level monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability, as well as maintaining detailed incident response procedures for addressing memory corruption vulnerabilities in mobile environments.