CVE-2017-13272:Use-after-free vulnerability in Android's alarm functionality could lead to remote privilege escalation

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CVE-2017-13272 is a critical vulnerability in Android's alarm functionality, specifically in the alarm_ready_generic function of alarm.cc. The vulnerability involves a use-after-free condition that can lead to an out-of-bounds write. This security flaw affects multiple versions of Android (7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0, and 8.1) and could allow remote attackers to escalate privileges without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction.

Overview

This vulnerability (CWE-416: Use After Free) exists in the alarm handling component of Android. The issue occurs when the system continues to use memory after it has been freed, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate this memory to execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability is particularly severe because:

  1. It can be exploited remotely
  2. No additional execution privileges are needed
  3. No user interaction is required for exploitation
  4. It affects multiple Android versions, including both Nougat (7.x) and Oreo (8.x) releases

The potential impact includes privilege escalation, which could allow attackers to gain elevated access to the device, potentially compromising sensitive data or taking control of affected systems.

Remediation

To address this vulnerability, users should:

  1. Update to the latest Android security patch level that includes fixes for this issue. Google released patches in the March 2018 Android Security Bulletin.

  2. Device manufacturers and carriers should apply and distribute these security patches to their devices.

  3. If updates are unavailable for your device, consider the following mitigations:

    • Avoid installing applications from untrusted sources
    • Keep all apps updated to their latest versions
    • Be cautious when granting permissions to applications
    • Consider upgrading to a supported device if your device is no longer receiving security updates

  4. System administrators managing Android devices in enterprise environments should ensure that all devices are updated with the latest security patches through their mobile device management (MDM) solutions.

References

  1. Android Security Bulletin (March 2018): https://source.android.com/security/bulletin/2018-03-01
  2. SecurityFocus BID: 103253 - http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/103253
  3. Android ID: A-67110137
  4. CWE-416: Use After Free - https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/416.html

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Manufacturing: Low
    Manufacturing
  2. Public Administration: Low
    Public Administration
  3. Educational Services: Low
    Educational Services
  4. Finance and Insurance: Low
    Finance and Insurance
  5. Transportation & Warehousing: Low
    Transportation & Warehousing
  6. Health Care & Social Assistance: Low
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  7. Information: Low
    Information
  8. Management of Companies & Enterprises: Low
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  9. Other Services (except Public Administration): Low
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  10. Accommodation & Food Services: Low
    Accommodation & Food Services
  11. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services: Low
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  12. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting: Low
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  13. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation: Low
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  14. Construction: Low
    Construction
  15. Mining: Low
    Mining
  16. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services: Low
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  17. Real Estate Rental & Leasing: Low
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  18. Retail Trade: Low
    Retail Trade
  19. Utilities: Low
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade: Low
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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