CVE-2022-20201 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 06/15/2022
In getAppSize of InstalldNativeService.cpp, there is a possible out of bounds read due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-12LAndroid ID: A-220733817
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/15/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-20201 resides within the Android operating system's installation service component known as installd native service. This flaw manifests in the getAppSize function located in the InstalldNativeService.cpp source file, representing a critical security weakness that could enable unauthorized privilege escalation. The vulnerability specifically constitutes an out-of-bounds read condition that occurs when the system fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits before accessing memory locations. Such missing bounds checking creates an exploitable scenario where malicious code could potentially access memory regions beyond the intended array boundaries, leading to unpredictable behavior and system instability. The Android 12L operating system version is affected by this vulnerability, with the Android ID A-220733817 tracking the specific issue within Google's internal vulnerability management system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the installd service, which operates with system-level privileges to manage application installation and uninstallation processes. When the getAppSize function processes application data structures, it fails to verify that array access operations remain within legitimate memory bounds, creating a potential pathway for attackers to manipulate memory access patterns. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-129 weakness category, specifically addressing insufficient bounds checking in the context of array access operations. The flaw represents a classic buffer over-read scenario where the system attempts to read beyond the allocated memory space, potentially exposing sensitive data or enabling code execution within the privileged execution context.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides a potential pathway for local privilege escalation attacks. An attacker with local system access could exploit this condition to gain elevated privileges within the Android system, potentially reaching system execution privileges that would allow them to perform actions typically restricted to system-level components. The exploitation requires the attacker to already possess system-level execution capabilities, but once achieved, the vulnerability could enable further compromise of the device through access to sensitive system resources and data. This represents a significant concern for Android devices running version 12L, where the installation service operates with elevated privileges and handles critical system functions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-20201 should prioritize the immediate application of security patches provided by Google through their regular Android security updates. Organizations and users should ensure that their Android 12L devices receive the latest security updates that address this specific bounds checking vulnerability. System administrators should also implement monitoring solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability, particularly focusing on unusual memory access patterns or privilege escalation activities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the use of system-level services to gain elevated access rights. Network security teams should consider implementing behavioral analysis tools that can detect anomalous access patterns in the installd service, as these could indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, device hardening practices should include disabling unnecessary system services and ensuring that only authorized applications can access the installation service interfaces, reducing the attack surface available to potential exploiters.