CVE-2022-20237 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 08/11/2022
In BuildDevIDResponse of miscdatabuilder.cpp, there is a possible out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to remote code execution with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android kernelAndroid ID: A-229621649References: N/A
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/10/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-20237 resides within the Android kernel's BuildDevIDResponse function located in the miscdatabuilder.cpp source file. This issue represents a critical out-of-bounds write condition that arises from the absence of proper bounds checking mechanisms during data processing. The flaw specifically manifests when the system attempts to construct device identification response data, creating a scenario where malicious input can cause memory corruption beyond intended buffer boundaries. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous as they can be exploited without requiring any special privileges or user interaction, making them highly attractive targets for attackers seeking to compromise Android devices at scale.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it squarely within the CWE-787 category of out-of-bounds write conditions, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The attack vector leverages the kernel-level processing of device identification responses, where an attacker can craft specially formatted input that bypasses normal validation checks. This particular flaw operates at the kernel level, meaning successful exploitation could potentially grant attackers complete control over the device's core operating system functions. The absence of user interaction requirements makes this vulnerability particularly concerning from a threat perspective, as it can be exploited remotely without any user involvement or consent.
From an operational impact standpoint, this vulnerability creates significant risk for Android device users and organizations relying on these platforms. The potential for remote code execution without additional privileges means that attackers could install malicious software, access sensitive data, or completely compromise device functionality. The vulnerability affects the Android kernel itself, which represents the foundational layer of the operating system, making the impact severe and far-reaching. Organizations deploying affected Android versions face potential security breaches that could result in data theft, unauthorized access to corporate networks, or complete device takeover scenarios. The lack of user interaction requirements eliminates the need for social engineering or user deception tactics, simplifying the exploitation process for threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-20237 should focus on immediate patch deployment from Android security updates, as this vulnerability requires kernel-level fixes that cannot be addressed through application-level workarounds. System administrators and device manufacturers must prioritize updating affected Android versions to patched releases that include proper bounds checking mechanisms in the BuildDevIDResponse function. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous device identification response patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification as a kernel-level issue means that traditional application firewalls or endpoint protection solutions may not provide adequate defense, requiring more comprehensive security approaches including kernel integrity monitoring and runtime protection mechanisms. Organizations should also implement regular security assessments to identify other potential out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities that could present similar exploitation risks.