CVE-2026-55331 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 09/15/2026
In IP Multimedia Subsystem, there is a possible out-of-bounds write due to an incorrect bounds check. This could lead to remote code execution with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/15/2026
The vulnerability described resides within the core architecture of the IP Multimedia Subsystem, specifically affecting components responsible for handling signaling and media control protocols such as SIP or Diameter. As a critical element in modern telecommunications networks, this subsystem manages session initiation, routing, and quality of service parameters for voice and video services over IP networks. The identified flaw is classified as an out-of-bounds write resulting from an incorrect bounds check during the processing of incoming protocol messages. This type of memory corruption error occurs when the software fails to properly validate the length or index of data structures before writing them into allocated memory buffers, allowing external inputs to overwrite adjacent memory locations that were not intended for modification.
From a technical perspective, this flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition where the boundary validation logic is either missing or implemented incorrectly. When an attacker crafts a maliciously formatted packet with oversized fields or specific offset values, they can trigger the erroneous write operation. Because the IP Multimedia Subsystem typically operates with high-level privileges to manage network resources and user sessions, this memory corruption allows for arbitrary code execution on the affected system. The absence of additional execution privileges required for exploitation means that any remote actor capable of reaching the service port associated with the vulnerable component can initiate the attack without needing prior authentication or local access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe due to its potential for remote code execution and lack of user interaction requirements. Attackers do not need to trick a human operator into clicking a link or opening an attachment, which significantly lowers the barrier to entry for exploitation. Once executed, the malicious payload can compromise the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of the telecommunications infrastructure. This could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive subscriber data, interception of communications, disruption of service through denial-of-service conditions, or further lateral movement within the network by establishing a persistent backdoor. The ability to execute code remotely makes this a high-severity threat that can destabilize entire cellular networks if left unpatched.
In terms of industry standards and classification frameworks, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-787: Out-of-bounds Write, which describes writing data outside the boundaries of allocated memory. It also relates to CWE-20: Improper Input Validation, as the root cause is the failure to correctly validate input parameters before processing them. From a tactical standpoint within the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability facilitates initial access and execution techniques, potentially enabling adversaries to achieve privilege escalation if the compromised process runs with elevated permissions. The lack of user interaction places it firmly in categories that allow for automated exploitation tools commonly used by threat actors targeting critical infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies must focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary defense is the application of vendor-provided security patches or updates that correct the bounds checking logic within the IP Multimedia Subsystem software. Organizations should prioritize deploying these fixes to all affected nodes in their network topology, particularly those exposed to untrusted networks such as the public internet or partner interconnects. Additionally, implementing strict input validation at the perimeter firewalls and session border controllers can help filter out malformed packets before they reach the vulnerable component. Network segmentation is also crucial; ensuring that signaling interfaces are isolated from general data traffic reduces the attack surface available to potential adversaries. Regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar implementation flaws in other protocol handlers within the system, as these errors often indicate broader issues with secure coding practices across the software suite.