CVE-2020-28343 in Samsung
Summary
by MITRE • 11/08/2020
An issue was discovered on Samsung mobile devices with P(9.0) and Q(10.0) (Exynos 980, 9820, and 9830 chipsets) software. The NPU driver allows attackers to execute arbitrary code because of unintended write and read operations on memory. The Samsung ID is SVE-2020-18610 (November 2020).
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/03/2020
This vulnerability exists within the Neural Processing Unit driver component of Samsung's mobile devices running Android Pie and Q versions, specifically affecting Exynos 980, 9820, and 9830 chipsets. The issue represents a critical security flaw that stems from improper memory access controls within the NPU driver implementation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. The vulnerability arises from unintended write and read operations that bypass normal memory protection mechanisms, allowing attackers to manipulate system memory in ways that should be restricted.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the NPU driver's failure to properly validate memory access operations, which creates a privilege escalation vector. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain elevated privileges and execute malicious code with system-level permissions, effectively compromising the device's security posture. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which describes "Stack-based Buffer Overflow" or more specifically related memory corruption issues where unintended memory operations create attack surfaces. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and memory management practices that violate fundamental security principles.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to users of affected Samsung devices, as it enables remote code execution without user interaction. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the NPU driver operates with high privileges and has direct access to system memory regions. This allows attackers to potentially install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors on compromised devices. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete device compromise and data breaches, making it a critical concern for enterprise security and personal privacy protection.
The security implications extend beyond individual device compromise to potential supply chain risks, as compromised devices could serve as entry points for broader network attacks. Organizations using Samsung devices with affected chipsets face increased risk of targeted attacks, especially in environments where mobile devices handle sensitive corporate data. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple Exynos chipsets indicates a systemic issue in the driver implementation that requires comprehensive remediation approaches. Mitigation strategies should include immediate firmware updates from Samsung, network-based intrusion detection measures, and device monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts.
This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, demonstrating how memory corruption flaws can be leveraged to achieve system-level control. Security teams should implement layered defenses including endpoint protection solutions, regular security assessments, and user awareness training to address the broader threat landscape. The incident highlights the importance of secure coding practices and thorough security testing of system drivers, particularly those with elevated privileges and direct hardware access capabilities.