CVE-2021-0585 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 07/15/2021
In beginWrite and beginRead of MessageQueueBase.h, there is a possible out of bounds write due to improper input validation. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-8.1 Android-9 Android-10 Android-11Android ID: A-184963385
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/18/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-0585 resides within the Android operating system's message queue implementation, specifically affecting the beginWrite and beginRead functions in the MessageQueueBase.h file. This issue represents a critical security flaw that manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition, fundamentally compromising the integrity of the system's inter-process communication mechanisms. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as an Improper Validation of Array Index, which directly relates to the insufficient bounds checking that occurs during message queue operations. The affected Android versions span from 8.1 through 11, indicating a widespread impact across multiple generations of the mobile operating system.
The technical flaw exploits a fundamental weakness in input validation where the system fails to properly validate the size and boundaries of data being written to or read from message queues. When applications attempt to write or read messages through these functions, the lack of proper boundary checking allows malicious actors to potentially overwrite adjacent memory locations. This improper validation creates a pathway for arbitrary code execution within the context of the system process, as the out-of-bounds write can corrupt critical data structures or even overwrite function pointers. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the system level, requiring only system execution privileges to exploit, making it accessible to malicious applications that have already gained system-level access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data corruption, as it enables local privilege escalation attacks that can elevate the privileges of malicious code from regular application level to system level. This escalation allows attackers to bypass normal security restrictions and gain full control over system resources, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered automatically through system processes or malicious applications. From an attacker's perspective, this represents a valuable privilege escalation vector within the Android security model, as it can be leveraged to bypass the usual sandboxing mechanisms that protect user data and system integrity.
Security professionals should prioritize immediate mitigation strategies for this vulnerability, including applying the latest Android security patches and updates from Google. The recommended approach involves implementing comprehensive input validation measures that enforce strict bounds checking in all message queue operations, aligning with the defensive programming principles outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Standards. System administrators should also consider implementing additional monitoring for unusual message queue activities and memory access patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any applications or services that might be leveraging the affected message queue mechanisms, while also reviewing their overall system hardening practices to prevent exploitation. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework as a privilege escalation technique emphasizes the need for layered security approaches that include process isolation, memory protection mechanisms, and regular security audits to prevent successful exploitation attempts.