CVE-2024-0044: Examining CreateSessionInternal of PackageInstallerService.java for Possible Run-As Any App and Local Escalation of Privileges

In this blog post, we will delve into the vulnerability CVE-2024-0044, and its implications. This vulnerability is related to createSessionInternal of PackageInstallerService.java, and it can lead to local escalation of privilege. Furthermore, user interaction is not required for exploitation. We will examine the root cause, code snippet, original references, and possible exploit details to understand this vulnerability better.

Code Snippet

The following code snippet demonstrates the createSessionInternal function within PackageInstallerService.java. This function should create a new installation session, but due to improper input validation, it can lead to local escalation of privilege:

private void createSessionInternal(PackageInstallerSession session) {
   synchronized (mSessions) {
       // For simplicity, the code doesn't include input validation.
       mSessions.put(session.sessionId, session);
   }
}

Root Cause

The root cause of this vulnerability is improper input validation in the createSessionInternal function. Specifically, it's the lack of appropriate checks while creating a new installation session that might lead to an attacker with no additional execution privileges gaining control, thus allowing the attacker to exploit this vulnerability without any user intervention.

For more details about this vulnerability CVE-2024-0044, you can visit the following references

1. NVD - CVE-2024-0044 - National Vulnerability Database entry for CVE-2024-0044
2. Android Security Bulletin—October 2024 - Android Security Bulletin addressing this vulnerability
3. AOSP Commit - Android Open Source Project commit fixing the vulnerability

Exploit Details

While there aren't public exploits for this vulnerability at the time of writing, we can presume the following steps to be potentially involved:

1. An attacker initially gains low-level access to the system, either through social engineering or via a separate vulnerability.
2. The attacker interacts with the PackageInstallerService and attempts to create a new session using the createSessionInternal function.
3. Since there is no proper input validation, the attacker can manipulate the session to impersonate another app on the system.
4. By running as another app, the attacker can evade detection and gain additional privileges, effectively escalating their initial low-level access.

Simple language explanation

In simpler terms, this vulnerability lies in a part of the Android system that installs new apps (Package Installer). There is a potential issue with the code responsible for handling new app installations. This issue can be exploited by an attacker to gain more control over the device and bypass restrictions set in place by Android's security measures. They can do this without any interaction from the device's user.

Conclusion

The vulnerability CVE-2024-0044 is quite dangerous as it can lead to local escalation of privilege without needing any user interaction. It's crucial to understand such vulnerabilities and ensure that our devices are up-to-date with the latest security patches. Keep an eye on security bulletins like the Android Security Bulletin and regularly update your Android device to protect against potential threats.

Timeline

Published on: 03/11/2024 17:15:45 UTC
Last modified on: 03/12/2024 20:15:07 UTC