External risk intelligence

Android NPU Driver Vulnerability Allows Memory Write and Code Execution.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2022-22265

A vulnerability in the NPU driver can allow unauthorized memory writes and code execution. This impacts affected mobile devices, potentially leading to data compromise and operational disruption. The business risk involves unauthorized access and data breaches, requiring the implementation of vendor security updates.

1Halo Surface Signal

Google Android

9.010.011.012.0

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2022-22265

This vulnerability exists in an NPU driver within mobile device operating systems. It requires local access to the device hardware/kernel and is not exposed to the public internet or reachable via remote network services.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

This vulnerability exists within the NPU driver on certain mobile devices. It stems from an improper handling of exceptional conditions. This flaw could allow for unauthorized modification of memory and the execution of arbitrary code on affected systems.

  • Vulnerable NPU driver
  • Improper condition handling
  • Arbitrary memory write and code execution

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An attacker with local access to a device can exploit a vulnerability in the NPU driver. This vulnerability allows the attacker to overwrite memory and execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The impact on organizations could include the compromise of sensitive data and the disruption of business operations due to unauthorized code execution.

  • Local access required for exploitation.
  • Attacker overwrites memory and executes code.
  • Enables arbitrary code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability presents a significant risk to organizations due to the potential for arbitrary memory writes and code execution on affected devices. The primary concern lies in the ability of an attacker to gain unauthorized control over device functions and data. While the technical exploitability is considered high, the need for local access limits the potential attack surface. Organizations should prioritize addressing this vulnerability to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches.

  • Likely attacker skill level: Low
  • Required access or conditions: Local access needed
  • Business risk or urgency: High

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability in the NPU driver could permit unauthorized memory writes and code execution. These actions may impact the integrity and confidentiality of data on affected systems. The exploit requires local access and is associated with a high severity rating.

  • Identify devices with affected operating systems.
  • Implement vendor-provided security updates.
  • Verify update application and monitor for anomalies.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Android NPU driver vulnerability (CVE-2022-22265)?

This vulnerability exists in the NPU (Neural Processing Unit) driver, a component used in mobile devices for AI and machine learning tasks. It was discovered due to improper handling of unusual conditions within the driver. The flaw could allow an attacker to modify memory and run their own code on the device.

What type of weakness does CVE-2022-22265 represent?

CVE-2022-22265 is categorized as an improper check or handling of exceptional conditions, identified by the weakness classification CWE-703. This means the software did not correctly manage unexpected situations, leading to the security flaw.

What conditions are needed for this NPU driver vulnerability to be exploited?

Exploiting this vulnerability requires an attacker to have local access to the affected device. This means they must already be able to interact with the device directly, rather than attacking it remotely over a network. The bug is not triggered by external network requests.

Who should be concerned about the CVE-2022-22265 vulnerability?

Organizations running affected Android devices with specific Samsung Exynos chipsets should be concerned. According to Halo Surface Signal, this vulnerability is classified as internal because it requires local access and is not exposed to the public internet, making it a lower risk for widespread external attacks but still critical for devices that could be physically accessed.

What are the first steps for responding to this NPU driver vulnerability?

The primary step is to identify all devices running the affected Android versions and ensure they have received the latest security updates provided by the vendor. After applying updates, it's advisable to monitor for any unusual activity on the devices.

References