CVE-2022-20369 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 08/11/2022
In v4l2_m2m_querybuf of v4l2-mem2mem.c, there is a possible out of bounds write due to improper input validation. 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-223375145References: Upstream kernel
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/12/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-20369 resides within the Linux kernel's Video 4 Linux 2 (V4L2) memory-to-memory (m2m) framework, specifically in the v4l2_m2m_querybuf function located in v4l2-mem2mem.c. This flaw represents a critical security issue that affects Android devices running kernel versions vulnerable to improper input validation. The vulnerability manifests as a potential out of bounds write condition that can be exploited to achieve local privilege escalation, requiring only system execution privileges for successful exploitation. The affected component is part of the broader V4L2 subsystem responsible for handling video capture and output operations within the Linux kernel environment.
The technical flaw stems from inadequate validation of input parameters passed to the v4l2_m2m_querybuf function, which processes buffer queries for memory-to-memory video operations. When processing certain buffer requests, the function fails to properly validate the size and bounds of input data structures, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries. This improper input validation aligns with CWE-129, which addresses insufficient validation of length of input buffers, and represents a classic out of bounds write vulnerability that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates within kernel space where privilege escalation can result in complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system instability and complete compromise of Android devices. An attacker with local system execution privileges can leverage this flaw to elevate their privileges from standard user level to root access, effectively gaining complete control over the device. The exploitation requires no user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered automatically through malicious applications or system processes. This vulnerability affects Android kernel implementations and represents a significant threat to mobile device security, potentially enabling attackers to install malicious software, extract sensitive data, or modify system configurations without user awareness.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-20369 should focus on immediate kernel updates from upstream sources as recommended by the Android security team. Organizations and device manufacturers should prioritize applying the relevant kernel patches that address the improper input validation in the v4l2_m2m_querybuf function. Additionally, implementing runtime protections such as kernel address space layout randomization and stack canaries can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. Security monitoring should include detection of anomalous buffer operations within the V4L2 subsystem, and system administrators should consider implementing access controls that limit exposure to potentially malicious applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in kernel space operations and highlights the need for continuous security auditing of core kernel subsystems to prevent similar issues from arising in the future.