CVE-2022-20490 : What You Need to Know

A vulnerability in AutomaticZenRule.java in Android could allow local privilege escalation without the need for additional privileges.

Understanding CVE-2022-20490

This CVE identifies a flaw in Android versions 10 through 13 that could be exploited by an attacker to escalate their privileges locally.

What is CVE-2022-20490?

The vulnerability exists in multiple functions of AutomaticZenRule.java, potentially leading to a failure to persist permissions settings due to resource exhaustion. This failure may result in local privilege escalation without requiring any additional execution privileges. Notably, user interaction is not necessary for exploitation.

The Impact of CVE-2022-20490

If successfully exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to elevate their privileges on the affected Android devices, posing a significant security risk to user data and system integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-20490

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability, its affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in AutomaticZenRule.java and its failure to persist permissions settings due to resource exhaustion, enabling local privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Android versions 10, 11, 12, 12L, and 13 are affected by this vulnerability, putting a wide range of devices at risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the flaw in AutomaticZenRule.java, threat actors can escalate their privileges locally without needing any additional execution privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2022-20490, immediate action and long-term security practices are essential for safeguarding affected systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to apply security patches promptly, monitor for any suspicious activities, and restrict unnecessary privileges to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing a robust security policy, conducting regular security audits, and educating users on safe computing practices can enhance the overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Regularly update Android devices with the latest security patches provided by the vendor to address known vulnerabilities and strengthen system defenses.