CVE-2023-39398 in EMUI
Summary
by MITRE • 08/13/2023
Parameter verification vulnerability in the installd module. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability may cause sandbox files to be read and written without authorization.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/10/2024
The CVE-2023-39398 vulnerability represents a critical parameter verification flaw within the installd module component of Android systems. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms that fail to properly verify parameters passed to the installd service responsible for managing application installation and uninstallation processes. The installd module operates within a privileged context and serves as a core component in Android's package management system, making it a prime target for exploitation by malicious actors seeking unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical nature of this vulnerability allows attackers to bypass normal authorization checks through crafted parameter inputs that exploit weak validation logic within the installd service. When the module processes installation requests without proper parameter verification, it creates opportunities for unauthorized file access patterns where sandboxed application files could be read or written without appropriate permissions. This flaw directly impacts the Android security model's integrity by potentially allowing privilege escalation and unauthorized data manipulation within the application sandbox environment.
From an operational perspective, successful exploitation of this vulnerability could enable attackers to access sensitive application data stored in sandboxed directories, modify installed applications, or potentially execute arbitrary code within the context of the installd service. The impact extends beyond individual application security to compromise the overall integrity of the Android package management system, potentially affecting multiple applications and system components that rely on proper installation and uninstallation procedures. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which describes "Improper Input Validation" as a fundamental weakness in software security design.
The attack surface for this vulnerability includes scenarios where malicious applications or compromised system components could trigger the flawed parameter handling within installd. According to ATT&CK framework categorization, this vulnerability could be leveraged under techniques such as T1068 for 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' and T1547.001 for 'Registry Run Keys / Startup Folder' if exploited to modify system installations. The vulnerability particularly affects Android versions where the installd module lacks proper input sanitization mechanisms, creating persistent security risks for devices that have not received appropriate security patches.
Organizations and device manufacturers should prioritize immediate patch deployment to address this vulnerability through official Android security updates. The recommended mitigation strategy involves implementing robust parameter validation controls within the installd module to ensure all inputs are properly verified before processing. Additionally, system administrators should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts and monitor for anomalous installation activities that might indicate successful exploitation of this vulnerability.