CVE-2022-42535 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 12/16/2022
In a query in MmsSmsProvider.java, there is a possible access to restricted tables due to SQL injection. This could lead to local information disclosure with User execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-13Android ID: A-224770183
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-42535 resides within the MmsSmsProvider.java component of Android 13 systems, representing a critical SQL injection flaw that enables unauthorized access to restricted database tables. This vulnerability specifically affects the messaging subsystem where the application processes SMS and MMS queries through a provider interface that fails to properly sanitize user inputs before incorporating them into SQL commands. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and parameterization practices within the database query execution flow, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the underlying SQL structure and gain access to sensitive data stored in restricted tables.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows an attacker with user-level execution privileges to exploit the SQL injection weakness by crafting malicious input that bypasses normal query restrictions. This occurs because the MmsSmsProvider.java component directly concatenates user-supplied parameters into SQL statements without proper sanitization or parameter binding mechanisms. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 as a SQL injection attack vector, where the attacker can manipulate database queries to extract information from tables that should normally be restricted to authorized access only. The attack requires only user execution privileges, eliminating the need for more privileged accounts or complex escalation techniques, which makes it particularly concerning for mobile environments where user-level access is common.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it enables potential data exfiltration from the device's messaging database that may contain sensitive personal information, conversation history, message content, and potentially device identifiers or contact information. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to access private communications, personal data, and other sensitive information stored within the Android messaging system. The local nature of the attack means that exploitation occurs within the device itself, requiring no network connectivity or external attack vectors, which aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage. The vulnerability affects Android 13 systems specifically, where the messaging provider component lacks proper input validation controls, making it a target for adversaries seeking to exploit mobile device data access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-42535 should focus on implementing proper parameterized queries and input validation mechanisms within the MmsSmsProvider.java component. The recommended approach involves replacing direct string concatenation with prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL command structure from user data inputs. Security patches should address the root cause by ensuring that all user-supplied data passed to database queries undergoes proper sanitization and validation before being incorporated into SQL execution. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege separation within the messaging provider interface can help limit the scope of potential data exposure even if the SQL injection vulnerability is exploited. Organizations should also consider applying the latest Android security updates and patches to address this vulnerability in affected systems, while monitoring for potential exploitation attempts through device logs and security information and event management systems.