CVE-2022-32612 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 11/09/2022
In vcu, there is a possible use after free due to a race condition. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS07203500; Issue ID: ALPS07203500.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-32612 represents a critical use-after-free condition within the vcu component, which operates under a race condition scenario that fundamentally compromises system security. This flaw exists in the Android operating system's hardware abstraction layer where the vcu module handles video codec operations, creating a window of opportunity for malicious code to exploit the timing discrepancy between memory deallocation and subsequent memory access. The race condition occurs when multiple threads or processes attempt to access the same memory resource simultaneously, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential privilege escalation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper synchronization mechanisms within the vcu driver, where memory allocated to handle video decoding operations is freed while still being referenced by other processes or threads. This use-after-free condition creates a scenario where an attacker can manipulate the memory layout to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability requires system execution privileges for exploitation but does not necessitate user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by malicious applications or processes running with system-level access. The flaw manifests during concurrent access scenarios when the vcu module processes multiple video streams simultaneously, creating the race condition window.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-32612 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially enable complete system compromise, as the vulnerability allows for local privilege escalation from system level to full administrative control. This capability undermines the fundamental security model of Android systems where processes should be isolated and operate with minimal privileges. The vulnerability affects devices running specific versions of Android where the vcu module is present, particularly impacting devices manufactured by companies that use the affected codebase. The exploitation of this flaw can result in persistent backdoors, data exfiltration, and complete system takeover, making it a significant concern for enterprise and consumer security.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying the official patch identified by patch ID ALPS07203500, which addresses the race condition through improved synchronization mechanisms and proper memory management protocols. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of the security update across all affected devices and systems. Additionally, implementing runtime monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous memory access patterns and unauthorized privilege escalation attempts provides an additional layer of defense. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free conditions, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through system binary manipulation. System administrators should also consider implementing device hardening measures, including disabling unnecessary video codec functionality and monitoring for suspicious process behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts.