CVE-2020-36376 in AAPTJS
Summary
by MITRE • 11/01/2021
An issue was discovered in the list function in shenzhim aaptjs 1.3.1, allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via the filePath parameters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/04/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-36376 resides within the shenzhim aaptjs 1.3.1 library, specifically in the list function implementation. This security flaw represents a critical code execution vulnerability that arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the filePath parameter handling mechanism. The affected library is commonly used in applications that process android application package files, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for mobile security ecosystems. The issue stems from the library's failure to properly validate user-supplied file paths, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code within the context of the application utilizing this library.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal and command injection flaw that aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-94 categories. When the list function processes the filePath parameter, it does not adequately sanitize or validate the input before using it in file system operations or command execution contexts. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious filePath values that contain shell metacharacters or command injection sequences. The vulnerability enables remote code execution capabilities because the library likely executes system commands or file operations using the provided filePath without proper parameter validation. This flaw operates at the intersection of improper input validation and unsafe execution practices, creating a dangerous combination that can be leveraged by threat actors to gain unauthorized system access.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-36376 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential full system compromise within environments where affected applications are deployed. Mobile applications and development tools that utilize shenzhim aaptjs 1.3.1 become vulnerable to attacks that can result in data exfiltration, system persistence mechanisms, and privilege escalation. The vulnerability affects both end-user applications and development environments, as developers may unknowingly incorporate this library into their build processes or application frameworks. Security implications include potential exposure of sensitive application data, unauthorized access to device resources, and the ability for attackers to establish persistent backdoors through the executed malicious code. This vulnerability particularly impacts Android application development workflows where automated package processing and analysis tools are employed, creating multiple attack vectors for threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate library version updates and comprehensive input validation implementations. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to patched versions of shenzhim aaptjs or implementing strict input sanitization measures that prevent malicious filePath parameters from being processed. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter execution, making it a critical target for defensive measures including network segmentation and application whitelisting. Additional protective measures include implementing proper parameter validation at multiple layers of the application stack, conducting thorough code reviews for similar input handling patterns, and establishing secure coding practices that prevent command injection vulnerabilities. Security teams should also monitor for exploitation attempts through network intrusion detection systems and implement comprehensive logging of file system operations to identify potential exploitation activities.