CVE-2022-20472 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 12/13/2022
In toLanguageTag of LocaleListCache.cpp, there is a possible out of bounds read due to an incorrect 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-10 Android-11 Android-12 Android-12L Android-13Android ID: A-239210579
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-20472 resides within the Android operating system's LocaleListCache.cpp component, specifically in the toLanguageTag function implementation. This issue represents a critical out-of-bounds read condition that arises from an incorrect bounds check mechanism. The flaw manifests when the system processes locale-related data structures, particularly during language tag conversion operations that are fundamental to Android's internationalization framework. The vulnerability affects multiple Android versions including Android 10, 11, 12, 12L, and 13, indicating a widespread impact across the Android ecosystem.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper validation of array indices or buffer boundaries when processing locale data. When the toLanguageTag function executes, it appears to perform an insufficient bounds check that allows memory access beyond the allocated buffer limits. This incorrect bounds validation creates a scenario where an attacker can manipulate input data to trigger memory read operations outside the intended data boundaries. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution vector means that malicious actors can exploit this flaw without requiring any additional privileges or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through network-based attacks or malicious applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-20472 extends beyond simple data corruption, as it provides a pathway for full system compromise. Since no user interaction is required for exploitation, attackers can leverage this vulnerability through various attack vectors including malicious applications, compromised websites, or network-based payloads. The flaw's presence in core Android components means that successful exploitation could potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected Android system processes. This represents a significant threat to device security and user privacy, as it could enable unauthorized access to sensitive information, system control, or persistent backdoor installation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch deployment through official Android security updates, which typically address the underlying bounds check implementation in LocaleListCache.cpp. Organizations and users must prioritize updating their Android devices to the latest security patches released by Google. Additionally, security monitoring should include detection of anomalous locale processing behavior or memory access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Network administrators should consider implementing additional security controls such as application whitelisting and mobile device management policies to reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array index bounds, and represents a technique that could be mapped to ATT&CK tactics involving privilege escalation and remote code execution through system-level vulnerabilities.