CVE-2026-55277 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 09/08/2026
In checkUiccListenConfigNeeded of RoutingManager.cpp, there is a possible out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to remote (proximal/adjacent) code execution with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/08/2026
The vulnerability identified in the checkUiccListenConfigNeeded function within RoutingManager.cpp represents a critical memory safety defect characterized by an out-of-bounds write condition. This flaw arises from a fundamental failure to validate array indices or buffer lengths before performing write operations, allowing data to be written beyond the allocated boundaries of the intended memory structure. In C and C++ based systems, such as those commonly found in network routing implementations, manual memory management is prevalent, placing the burden entirely on the developer to ensure that all access patterns remain within defined limits. The absence of this specific bounds check creates a scenario where maliciously crafted input can manipulate the control flow or overwrite adjacent memory structures, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with no additional privileges required by an attacker and without necessitating user interaction for exploitation.
From a technical perspective, out-of-bounds writes are among the most dangerous classes of software vulnerabilities because they provide direct pathways to compromise system integrity. When data is written outside its allocated buffer, it may overwrite critical metadata such as function return addresses, stack canaries, or heap management structures like chunk headers in dynamic memory allocators. If an attacker can control the content being written and predict the layout of adjacent memory regions, they can achieve arbitrary code execution by redirecting program flow to shellcode injected into the buffer or through techniques like Return Oriented Programming (ROP). The proximity required for exploitation suggests that this vulnerability likely exists within a component accessible via local network interfaces or inter-process communication channels, meaning an attacker with proximal access could trigger the flaw remotely.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe, as it allows for remote code execution in contexts where high privileges are often assumed by default due to the nature of routing management tasks. Routing managers typically operate at a low level within the operating system or network stack, granting them significant authority over network configurations and packet processing. Compromise of such a component can lead not only to full control of the affected device but also potential pivoting into broader internal networks if the compromised node serves as a gateway or critical infrastructure element. The lack of requirement for user interaction further exacerbates the risk, enabling automated exploitation tools to target this weakness without social engineering tactics, thereby increasing the likelihood of widespread compromise in environments where devices are connected and left unattended.
This vulnerability aligns closely with Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) identifiers such as CWE-787: Out-of-bounds Write and CWE-125: Out-of-bounds Read if adjacent reads also occur, though the primary concern here is write operations leading to execution. In terms of adversarial tactics, this flaw facilitates exploitation techniques described in MITRE ATT&CK framework under Tactic TA0004: Privilege Escalation or TA0002: Execution, specifically leveraging memory corruption vulnerabilities for initial access and persistence. Attackers would likely utilize buffer overflow exploits to gain a foothold on the system, potentially followed by privilege escalation if the process runs with elevated rights inherent to routing functions.
Mitigation strategies must focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary fix involves implementing rigorous input validation within the checkUiccListenConfigNeeded function to ensure that all indices used for array access are strictly bounded by the allocated size of the target buffer. Developers should employ static analysis tools configured to detect out-of-bounds accesses during the coding phase, as well as dynamic testing methods like fuzzing to uncover edge cases in input handling. Furthermore, adopting safer programming practices such as using standard library containers that perform automatic bounds checking or enabling compiler flags for stack protection and address space layout randomization can significantly reduce the exploitability of remaining vulnerabilities. Regular security audits focusing on memory management patterns are essential to prevent recurrence of such critical flaws in network-critical software components.