CVE-2017-13315
📋 TL;DR
CVE-2017-13315 is an Android privilege escalation vulnerability in the DcParamObject.java component where a write size mismatch allows attackers to bypass permissions and start activities with system privileges. This affects Android devices running vulnerable versions, requiring no user interaction for exploitation. The vulnerability enables local attackers to elevate privileges without needing additional execution permissions.
💻 Affected Systems
- Android
📦 What is this software?
Android by Google
Android by Google
Android by Google
Android by Google
Android by Google
Android by Google
Android by Google
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
An attacker gains full system-level access to the device, potentially installing persistent malware, accessing all user data, and controlling device functions.
Likely Case
Local privilege escalation allowing unauthorized access to protected system functions and sensitive data.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if devices are patched or have strict app isolation and permission controls.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires local access to the device through a malicious app or compromised session. No user interaction needed once access is obtained.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Android security patch level 2018-05-01 and later
Vendor Advisory: https://source.android.com/security/bulletin/2018-05-01
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Check current Android security patch level in Settings > About phone > Android security patch level. 2. If patch level is before 2018-05-01, update device through Settings > System > System update. 3. Apply available updates and restart device.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict app installations
androidOnly install apps from trusted sources like Google Play Store and disable unknown sources installation.
Settings > Security > Unknown sources (disable)
Minimize app permissions
androidReview and restrict app permissions to minimum required functionality.
Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Permissions
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate vulnerable devices from sensitive networks and data
- Implement mobile device management (MDM) with strict app control policies
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check Android security patch level in Settings > About phone > Android security patch level. If date is before 2018-05-01, device is likely vulnerable.Check Version:
adb shell getprop ro.build.version.security_patchVerify Fix Applied:
Verify Android security patch level shows 2018-05-01 or later after applying updates.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual system privilege escalations in Android system logs
- Suspicious activity from apps requesting system-level permissions
Network Indicators:
- Unusual network traffic from system-level processes
SIEM Query:
source="android_system_logs" AND (event_type="privilege_escalation" OR permission="android.permission.*SYSTEM*")