CVE-2022-20174 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 06/15/2022
In exynos_secEnv_init of mach-gs101.c, there is a possible out of bounds read due to an incorrect bounds check. This could lead to local information disclosure with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android kernelAndroid ID: A-210847407References: N/A
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/15/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-20174 resides within the exynos_secEnv_init function located in the mach-gs101.c file of the Android kernel implementation. This flaw represents a classic out-of-bounds read condition that stems from an inadequate bounds check mechanism within the security environment initialization process. The affected component is part of Samsung's Exynos SoC platform implementation, specifically targeting the gs101 machine configuration where security services are initialized during system boot. The vulnerability manifests when the kernel attempts to process security environment data structures without proper validation of array indices or buffer boundaries, creating a potential pathway for unauthorized data access.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient bounds checking, and represents a subset of memory safety issues that can lead to information disclosure. The flaw occurs during the early boot phase when the kernel initializes security services for the Exynos platform, making it particularly concerning as it operates at the most privileged system level. The incorrect bounds check allows an attacker with system execution privileges to potentially read memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries, which could expose sensitive kernel data, security keys, or other confidential information. This type of vulnerability typically arises from complex data processing logic where array indices are calculated or manipulated without proper validation against actual buffer dimensions.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-20174 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it represents a potential escalation vector for attackers who already possess system-level privileges. While the vulnerability requires system execution privileges for exploitation, this is often achievable through various attack vectors including privilege escalation exploits, compromised applications, or malicious firmware updates. The information disclosure could potentially reveal kernel memory layouts, security service configurations, or cryptographic material that would aid in developing more sophisticated attacks. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and credential access, as the leaked information could be used to bypass security mechanisms or identify further weaknesses in the system's security architecture.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper bounds checking mechanisms within the exynos_secEnv_init function and similar security initialization routines. The recommended approach involves adding comprehensive validation of array indices and buffer boundaries before any memory access operations occur, ensuring that all data processing adheres to proper memory safety principles. Android kernel updates should include enhanced input validation and bounds checking specifically targeting the affected file and related security initialization components. System administrators should prioritize applying the latest security patches from Samsung and Google, as these updates will contain the necessary code modifications to address the bounds checking issue. Additionally, deployment of runtime monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous memory access patterns may provide additional defense-in-depth protection, particularly in environments where the vulnerability cannot be immediately patched due to device compatibility or deployment constraints.