CVE-2022-20579 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 12/16/2022
In RadioImpl::setCdmaBroadcastConfig of ril_service_legacy.cpp, there is a possible stack clash leading to memory corruption. 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-243510139References: N/A
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/22/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-20579 resides within the RadioImpl::setCdmaBroadcastConfig function of the ril_service_legacy.cpp file within Android's radio interface layer implementation. This represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow condition that manifests during the processing of CDMA broadcast configuration parameters. The flaw occurs when the system handles incoming radio interface layer commands related to CDMA broadcast messaging, specifically when configuring broadcast channel parameters that are passed to the underlying radio implementation.
The technical execution of this vulnerability involves a stack clash scenario where insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations. This memory corruption can potentially be leveraged to execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges, as the affected component operates within the radio interface service context that typically runs with elevated permissions. The vulnerability's exploitation requires only local access to the device since no user interaction is necessary for triggering the vulnerable code path, making it particularly concerning for privilege escalation attacks.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability represents a significant threat to Android device security as it allows for local privilege escalation from a standard user context to system-level execution privileges. The attack surface is broad since the radio interface service is essential for mobile communication functionality and typically maintains persistent execution. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is categorized under the broader category of CWE-119 Improper Access to Memory Locations. The attack vector maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which describes legitimate system privileges being used to escalate privileges to system-level access.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to have local access to the device and the ability to send specially crafted radio interface commands to the vulnerable service. The stack corruption can potentially be manipulated to overwrite return addresses or function pointers, enabling code execution with system privileges. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where local access is possible, such as devices with unlocked bootloaders or those compromised through other attack vectors. Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper bounds checking and input validation within the radio interface layer, along with regular security updates and patches from device manufacturers. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices in system-level components and the need for comprehensive security testing of radio interface implementations.