CVE-2023-40109 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 02/16/2024
In createFromParcel of UsbConfiguration.java, there is a possible background activity launch (BAL) due to a permissions bypass. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/16/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-40109 resides within the createFromParcel method of the UsbConfiguration.java file, representing a critical background activity launch issue that enables unauthorized privilege escalation. This flaw operates at the system level within Android's USB framework, specifically targeting the parcelable object creation process that handles USB configuration data. The vulnerability manifests when the system processes USB configuration information through the parcelable mechanism, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to exploit a permissions bypass that allows unauthorized background activity initiation. The implementation of the createFromParcel method fails to properly validate or restrict the execution context of background activities, creating a pathway for privilege escalation without requiring additional malicious code execution or elevated privileges.
The technical flaw stems from inadequate input validation and permission checking within the USB configuration handling code. When the system processes USB configuration data through the parcelable creation mechanism, it does not sufficiently verify the source or legitimacy of the background activities being launched. This represents a classic permissions bypass vulnerability that falls under CWE-284, which addresses improper access control mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically enables a background activity launch that can occur without proper authorization checks, allowing malicious applications to potentially execute privileged operations that should be restricted to system-level components or applications with appropriate permissions. The issue is particularly concerning because it operates within the Android framework's core USB handling capabilities, which are frequently accessed during normal device operation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system compromise and unauthorized data access. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute background activities that would normally require elevated privileges, potentially enabling them to access sensitive system resources, modify critical system components, or establish persistent access to the device. The requirement for user interaction indicates that exploitation typically occurs through social engineering or targeted phishing attacks where users unknowingly grant permissions or interact with malicious USB devices. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where USB devices are frequently used for data transfer, debugging, or device management purposes. The local escalation of privilege means that once exploited, the attacker can operate with the privileges of system components, potentially leading to complete device compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-40109 should focus on strengthening the input validation mechanisms within the USB configuration handling code and implementing proper permission checks during background activity launches. System administrators should ensure that all Android devices receive timely security updates and that USB debugging features are disabled in production environments where possible. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation,' and T1547.001, which addresses 'Registry Run Keys / Startup Folder.' Organizations should implement strict USB device policies, monitor for unauthorized USB connections, and consider deploying mobile device management solutions that can restrict USB functionality. Additionally, developers should review the parcelable implementation in their USB handling code to ensure proper validation of background activity initiation and implement proper access control checks. The recommended approach includes patching the affected Android versions, implementing runtime monitoring for suspicious background activity launches, and conducting security audits of USB-related code to identify similar permission bypass vulnerabilities.