CVE-2022-20452 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 11/09/2022
In initializeFromParcelLocked of BaseBundle.java, there is a possible method arbitrary code execution due to a confused deputy. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-13Android ID: A-240138318
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/15/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-20452 resides within the Android operating system's BaseBundle.java component, specifically in the initializeFromParcelLocked method. This flaw represents a confused deputy problem where an attacker can manipulate the method's behavior to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability affects Android 13 and is tracked under Android ID A-240138318. The confused deputy scenario occurs when a malicious actor exploits the method's improper handling of parcel data, allowing unauthorized code execution through legitimate system interfaces.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper access control within the initializeFromParcelLocked method. When the system processes parcel data containing maliciously crafted parameters, the method fails to properly verify the authenticity of the data source. This allows an attacker to construct a specially formatted parcel that, when processed by the vulnerable method, triggers unintended code execution. The flaw operates at the system level where trusted components interact with untrusted data, creating a pathway for privilege escalation without requiring additional user permissions or elevated privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-20452 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential local privilege escalation scenarios. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain elevated system privileges and execute commands with the same permissions as the Android system itself. This creates a significant security risk as the attacker can access sensitive system resources, modify system configurations, or potentially install malicious applications. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered automatically during normal system operations or application launches.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-427 and CWE-428 categories related to uncontrolled search paths and vulnerable dependencies. The flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' and T1547.001, covering 'Registry Run Keys / Startup Folder'. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it operates within the Android framework's core components, making it difficult to detect and mitigate through standard security measures. Organizations should consider implementing runtime monitoring solutions to detect anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-20452 should focus on immediate patch deployment and system hardening measures. Android device manufacturers and carriers must prioritize the release of security updates addressing this vulnerability. System administrators should implement monitoring protocols to detect unauthorized privilege escalation attempts and ensure that all Android devices are updated to versions containing the patched BaseBundle.java implementation. Additional defensive measures include network segmentation, application whitelisting, and enhanced runtime application behavior monitoring to identify potential exploitation attempts before they can succeed.