CVE-2021-1008 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 12/15/2021
In addSubInfo of SubscriptionController.java, there is a possible way to force the user to make a factory reset due to a logic error in the code. This could lead to local denial of service with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-12Android ID: A-197327688
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/18/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-1008 resides within the Android operating system's subscription controller component, specifically in the addSubInfo method of SubscriptionController.java. This flaw represents a logic error that can be exploited to trigger an unintended system state leading to forced factory reset conditions. The vulnerability exists in Android 12 and affects the underlying subscription management functionality that handles cellular network subscriptions. The issue stems from improper validation and handling of subscription information during the addition process, creating a condition where malicious input or unexpected state transitions can cause the system to enter a recovery mode that necessitates complete factory reset operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic denial of service scenario where the logic error in SubscriptionController.java allows for arbitrary control over the subscription state management. When the addSubInfo method processes subscription information, it fails to properly validate input parameters or handle edge cases that could lead to inconsistent internal state. This logic flaw creates a path where an attacker can manipulate subscription data in such a way that the system determines the only viable recovery option is a factory reset. The vulnerability requires system execution privileges for exploitation, indicating that it operates at a privileged level within the Android framework where subscription management occurs. The flaw does not require user interaction, making it particularly concerning as it can be triggered automatically through system-level processes or malicious applications with appropriate permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption to potentially compromise device usability and user data integrity. A successful exploitation of this logic error can force users into a complete factory reset scenario, resulting in loss of all personal data, application settings, and configuration preferences stored on the device. This type of denial of service attack can be particularly damaging in enterprise environments where mobile device management policies rely on stable subscription states for proper device provisioning and network access control. The vulnerability affects the core subscription management functionality that Android uses to maintain network connectivity and service provisioning across multiple SIM cards or network profiles. From a security perspective, this represents a privilege escalation risk where an attacker with system-level access can manipulate subscription states to cause system-wide disruption.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-1008 should focus on patching the underlying logic error in the SubscriptionController.java implementation and implementing proper input validation mechanisms. Android security updates should address the specific validation gaps in the addSubInfo method to prevent malformed subscription data from causing system state inconsistencies. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring of subscription management operations to detect anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-252, which describes an unchecked return value or status code, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1490, which covers data destruction through denial of service mechanisms. System administrators should ensure timely deployment of security patches and maintain awareness of subscription management anomalies that could indicate attempted exploitation. Device manufacturers and carriers should review their subscription provisioning processes to identify potential attack vectors that could leverage similar logic errors in related components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper state management and validation in system-level components where user data integrity and system stability are paramount concerns.