CVE-2022-20591 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 12/16/2022
In ppmpu_set of ppmpu.c, there is a possible information disclosure due to a logic error in the code. This could lead to local information disclosure with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android kernelAndroid ID: A-238939706References: N/A
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/22/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-20591 resides within the ppmpu_set function in the ppmpu.c source file of the Android kernel, representing a critical logic error that enables unauthorized information disclosure. This flaw specifically affects the power management unit subsystem and operates at the kernel level, where it creates an unintended pathway for sensitive data exposure. The vulnerability's classification as a logic error indicates that the code implementation contains flawed conditional statements or control flow mechanisms that inadvertently allow access to protected memory regions or system information.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper validation and handling of power management unit configuration parameters, where the ppmpu_set function fails to adequately verify input parameters or maintain proper access controls during register modifications. This logic flaw creates a scenario where local processes can potentially read or extract information that should remain protected within kernel memory spaces. The vulnerability does not require any special execution privileges beyond normal user-level access, making it particularly concerning as it can be exploited by any local user without requiring elevated permissions or additional attack vectors. The absence of user interaction requirements for exploitation means that an attacker only needs to execute a local process that can trigger the vulnerable function, significantly broadening the attack surface.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk for Android devices as it allows local information disclosure without additional privileges, potentially exposing sensitive system data, memory contents, or configuration parameters that could aid in further exploitation attempts. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that it operates within the kernel space where critical system functions reside, potentially enabling attackers to gather intelligence about the device's internal state, memory layout, or security configurations. The vulnerability's exploitation could facilitate more sophisticated attacks such as privilege escalation, memory corruption, or targeted information gathering that could be leveraged in combination with other vulnerabilities. According to the ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and information gathering, specifically targeting the kernel level where system integrity is maintained.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2022-20591 should focus on implementing proper input validation and access control mechanisms within the ppmpu_set function to ensure that all parameters are correctly validated before processing. Security patches should address the logic error by adding appropriate boundary checks, parameter validation, and ensuring that memory access restrictions are properly enforced during power management unit configuration. The fix should align with secure coding practices and follow the principles outlined in CWE categories related to improper validation and information exposure. Organizations should prioritize applying the official kernel patches provided by Android vendors and monitor for any related vulnerabilities that might exploit similar logic flaws within the power management subsystem. The vulnerability's classification as a local information disclosure also emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper system access controls and implementing least privilege principles to limit the potential impact of such flaws in the broader security ecosystem.