CVE-2022-20382 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 08/11/2022
In (TBD) of (TBD), there is a possible out of bounds write due to kernel stack 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-214245176References: Upstream kernel
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/11/2022
This vulnerability represents a critical kernel-level flaw that manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition resulting from a stack overflow within the android kernel implementation. The vulnerability occurs during kernel operations where insufficient bounds checking allows malicious code to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the kernel stack. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write conditions that can occur when array indices or buffer sizes are not properly validated. The exploitation of this vulnerability requires local system execution privileges, meaning an attacker must already have access to the system with user-level permissions to leverage this flaw for privilege escalation.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-20382 extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides a pathway for attackers to gain system-level control over affected android devices. When an out-of-bounds write occurs in kernel space, it can corrupt critical kernel data structures, potentially leading to system instability or complete compromise of the device. The attack vector does not require user interaction, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited automatically without any user awareness or consent. This characteristic aligns with the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation tactics, specifically targeting the T1068 technique for local privilege escalation through kernel vulnerabilities.
The vulnerability's exploitation pathway involves manipulating kernel stack operations to overflow the allocated stack space and overwrite critical memory regions. This type of kernel stack overflow can be particularly devastating as it affects the fundamental execution environment of the operating system. The upstream kernel reference indicates that this is a base-level kernel issue that affects multiple android versions, suggesting a widespread impact across the android ecosystem. The Android ID A-214245176 further emphasizes the severity and tracking of this vulnerability within the android security framework. The combination of the out-of-bounds write condition and the kernel stack overflow creates a perfect storm for privilege escalation attacks where attackers can manipulate kernel execution flow to gain root access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on kernel-level patches and updates that address the specific stack overflow condition and implement proper bounds checking mechanisms. System administrators should prioritize immediate deployment of kernel updates that resolve this specific vulnerability, as the lack of user interaction requirements makes this a high-priority security concern. The recommended approach includes implementing memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and enhanced kernel memory validation routines. Additionally, monitoring for unusual kernel stack behavior and implementing automated patch management systems can help prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing network-based detection measures that monitor for potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability class.