CVE-2023-20943 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 02/28/2023
In clearApplicationUserData of ActivityManagerService.java, there is a possible way to remove system files due to a path traversal error. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with User execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-10 Android-11 Android-12 Android-12L Android-13Android ID: A-240267890
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-20943 resides within the Android operating system's ActivityManagerService component, specifically in the clearApplicationUserData method. This flaw represents a path traversal vulnerability that allows malicious applications to potentially access and modify system files through improper input validation. The vulnerability affects multiple Android versions including Android 10, 11, 12, 12L, and 13, indicating a widespread impact across the Android ecosystem. The issue stems from insufficient sanitization of user-provided paths during the application data clearing process, creating an avenue for unauthorized file system manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the ActivityManagerService component which manages application lifecycle operations and user data handling. When clearApplicationUserData is invoked, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize the input paths that specify which application data should be cleared. This allows an attacker to craft malicious paths that traverse outside of the intended application data directory, potentially accessing system directories and files. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 Path Traversal and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through exploitation of system vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables local privilege escalation with only user execution privileges required for exploitation. This means that an attacker with basic application installation rights could potentially gain elevated privileges and access system-level resources. The attack vector does not require user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited automatically when applications attempt to clear user data. The potential for system file removal creates risks including but not limited to data corruption, system instability, and unauthorized access to sensitive system information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-20943 should focus on implementing proper input validation and path sanitization within the ActivityManagerService component. Android security patches typically address such vulnerabilities by adding comprehensive validation checks that prevent path traversal attacks. Organizations should ensure immediate deployment of available security updates from Google and device manufacturers. Additional protective measures include implementing application sandboxing mechanisms, restricting file system access permissions, and monitoring for unusual file system operations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices in system-level components and demonstrates how seemingly minor input validation flaws can lead to significant privilege escalation capabilities. Regular security audits of system services and proper adherence to secure development practices remain essential for preventing similar vulnerabilities in future implementations.