CVE-2022-42525 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 12/16/2022
In fillSetupDataCallInfo_V1_6 of ril_service_1_6.cpp, there is a possible out of bounds write due to an incorrect bounds check. 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-243509750References: N/A
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-42525 resides within the Android kernel's telephony subsystem, specifically in the ril_service_1_6.cpp file where the fillSetupDataCallInfo_V1_6 function performs critical operations for modem communication. This issue represents a classic out-of-bounds write vulnerability that occurs when the system fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits during data processing operations. The flaw manifests in the telephony interface layer where mobile network configuration data is handled, making it a particularly dangerous vulnerability given the privileged nature of telephony services in Android devices.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from an inadequate bounds checking mechanism within the telecommunications service implementation. When processing data call setup information, the function incorrectly calculates or validates buffer boundaries, allowing malicious input to write data beyond the allocated memory space. This improper validation creates a condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting critical system structures or executing arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as an "Improper Validation of Array Index" which directly relates to the flawed bounds checking implementation.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-42525 extends beyond typical memory corruption scenarios due to the privileged execution context required for exploitation. While user interaction is not necessary for exploitation, the vulnerability requires System execution privileges to be effectively leveraged, indicating that it likely targets processes running with elevated permissions within the telephony service framework. This makes it particularly concerning for Android devices where the telephony service operates with significant system-level access. The vulnerability could enable local privilege escalation attacks that allow malicious applications or processes to gain system-level control, potentially compromising device security and user data integrity.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves the use of legitimate credentials and system access to escalate privileges. Attackers could potentially craft malicious telecommunications data or manipulate telephony service parameters to trigger the out-of-bounds write condition, leading to unauthorized system access. The mitigation strategy should focus on implementing proper bounds checking mechanisms, applying kernel-level patches, and ensuring that all telecommunications service interfaces validate input data thoroughly before processing. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for unauthorized access to telephony services and implement network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors. The Android security team has addressed this issue through kernel updates, but organizations should verify patch compliance and monitor for any potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability in their device fleets.