CVE-2021-0302 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 02/10/2021
In PackageInstaller, there is a possible tapjacking attack due to an insecure default value. This could lead to local escalation of privilege and permissions with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-8.1 Android-9 Android-10Android ID: A-155287782
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/27/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-0302 resides within the PackageInstaller component of Android operating systems spanning versions 8.1, 9, and 10. This security flaw represents a tapjacking attack vector that exploits an insecure default value configuration, creating a significant risk for privilege escalation. The vulnerability operates through a fundamental design weakness in how the installer handles user interface elements, specifically allowing malicious applications to intercept touch events and manipulate user interactions without requiring additional execution privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper default security configurations within the PackageInstaller's user interface layer. When users interact with installation prompts or permission dialogs, the system's default behavior fails to adequately protect against overlay attacks where malicious applications can position themselves above legitimate installation interfaces. This insecure default value creates a window where attackers can craft deceptive interfaces that appear to be legitimate system dialogs while actually executing unauthorized operations. The flaw operates at the application layer and leverages the Android permission model's inherent trust in system components, making exploitation particularly dangerous as it requires only user interaction to succeed.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-0302 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential full system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain elevated privileges without requiring additional malicious code execution, effectively bypassing standard security boundaries that normally protect against unauthorized system modifications. The attack requires only user interaction through a carefully crafted malicious application that presents a deceptive interface, making it particularly insidious as it can be deployed through social engineering or malicious app distribution channels. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-691, which addresses insecure default configurations in security-critical components.
From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting legitimate credentials and privileges to gain system access. The tapjacking attack pattern specifically maps to T1551, which covers privilege escalation through manipulation of system processes. The attack chain typically involves initial user interaction with a malicious application that then leverages the insecure default value to overlay legitimate system dialogs, tricking users into granting unauthorized permissions or executing malicious installations. This vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly minor configuration defaults can create substantial security risks when they fail to properly account for overlay attack scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-0302 require both immediate system updates and user awareness measures. Android security patches addressing this vulnerability should be deployed immediately across all affected versions, as the fix typically involves correcting the default security behavior in the PackageInstaller component. Organizations should implement mobile device management policies that prevent installation of untrusted applications and maintain regular security update schedules. Users should be educated about the risks of granting permissions to unknown applications and should verify the legitimacy of installation prompts before interaction. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and default security configurations, particularly in system components that handle user interactions and privilege management, as outlined in the OWASP Mobile Top 10 security framework.