CVE-2023-20958 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 03/24/2023
In read_paint of ttcolr.c, there is a possible out of bounds read due to a heap buffer overflow. This could lead to local information disclosure with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-13Android ID: A-254803162
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-20958 resides within the Android graphics rendering subsystem, specifically in the read_paint function located in the ttcolr.c file. This issue represents a critical heap buffer overflow condition that manifests as an out-of-bounds read operation, fundamentally compromising the memory integrity of the affected system. The flaw originates from improper bounds checking during the processing of color table data within TrueType font rendering operations, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted font files could trigger memory corruption.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of heap-based data structures during font color table processing, where insufficient validation allows an attacker to read memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. This particular flaw falls under the CWE-125 vulnerability category, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions in software implementations. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of font processing and memory management, exploiting the lack of proper input sanitization during the parsing of color information within TrueType font files. The attack vector leverages the system's font rendering capabilities without requiring any special privileges or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through automated means.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-20958 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it represents a potential pathway for more sophisticated attacks within the Android ecosystem. While the current exploitation scenario only requires local access and does not necessitate additional execution privileges, the vulnerability's presence creates opportunities for attackers to gather sensitive information that could be leveraged in subsequent attacks. The affected Android 13 operating system version demonstrates the widespread nature of this issue, as it affects a significant portion of the mobile device landscape where font rendering is extensively utilized. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as it could potentially be used to extract information from system memory for further exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and bounds checking within the font processing modules. Android security patches should include enhanced memory protection mechanisms and heap-based buffer overflow prevention techniques, particularly targeting the specific function where the out-of-bounds read occurs. System administrators and device manufacturers should prioritize immediate deployment of security updates, as the vulnerability's exploitation does not require user interaction and can potentially be triggered through automated font rendering processes. Additionally, implementing runtime protections such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization can provide additional layers of defense against potential exploitation attempts, though these measures serve as supplementary protections rather than complete solutions to the underlying heap buffer overflow condition.