CVE-2022-20178 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 06/15/2022
In ioctl_dpm_qos_update and ioctl_event_control_set of (TBD), there is a possible out of bounds write due to an integer overflow. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android kernelAndroid ID: A-224932775References: N/A
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/15/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-20178 resides within the Android kernel's implementation of ioctl_dpm_qos_update and ioctl_event_control_set functions, representing a critical security flaw that enables local privilege escalation. This issue stems from an integer overflow condition that occurs during the processing of device ioctls, specifically when handling Quality of Service (QoS) updates and event control operations. The integer overflow creates a scenario where an attacker can manipulate input parameters to cause memory corruption, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with system-level privileges.
The technical flaw manifests through improper bounds checking and integer overflow handling within the kernel's ioctl implementation. When these functions process user-supplied parameters, they fail to adequately validate the size calculations, allowing an attacker to craft inputs that result in buffer overflows. This vulnerability operates at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by malicious applications running with standard user privileges to gain elevated system access. The flaw directly relates to CWE-190, Integer Overflow or Wraparound, which is classified as a common weakness in software security that frequently leads to memory corruption vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with a pathway to execute arbitrary code with the highest system privileges available. This capability enables full system compromise, allowing malicious actors to install persistent backdoors, modify system files, or exfiltrate sensitive data without user interaction. The local nature of the exploit means that any application running on the device can potentially leverage this vulnerability, making it particularly concerning in environments where multiple applications may be running with varying privilege levels. The Android security model relies heavily on proper kernel boundary enforcement, and this flaw undermines that fundamental security principle.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-20178 should focus on both immediate patching and defensive measures. Android kernel updates addressing this vulnerability should be deployed immediately across all affected devices, as the integer overflow can be exploited without user interaction. System administrators should also implement additional security controls including kernel address space layout randomization, stack canaries, and other exploit mitigation techniques. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1068, Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, indicates that defensive measures should include monitoring for unusual system calls and privilege escalation attempts. Additionally, application sandboxing and runtime protection mechanisms should be strengthened to prevent malicious applications from accessing kernel interfaces that could be exploited. Organizations should also conduct thorough security assessments to identify any other potential integer overflow vulnerabilities in kernel modules and ensure proper input validation across all system components.