Android Root Exploitation

CRITICALAndroid Security

Root exploitation involves gaining superuser (root) access to Android devices, bypassing security restrictions to install malicious apps, modify system files, and access sensitive data.

Severity: CRITICAL

This attack has been classified as critical severity based on its potential impact and exploitability.

Technical Overview

Android root exploitation leverages vulnerabilities in the Linux kernel, bootloader, or system services to escalate privileges. Common methods include exploiting kernel vulnerabilities (dirtycow, CVE-2015-1805), bootloader unlocking, and exploiting Android Debug Bridge (ADB) vulnerabilities. Once rooted, attackers can bypass SELinux policies, access protected storage, and install persistent malware.

Attack Flow Diagram

Step-by-step visualization of the attack process

Architecture Diagram

Visualization of attack vectors and components

Impact

Complete device compromise and data access
Bypass of Android security model (SELinux, app sandboxing)
Installation of persistent malware and rootkits
Access to encrypted data and authentication tokens
Ability to intercept all network traffic
Warranty voiding and device instability

Attack Vectors

Kernel vulnerability exploitation (dirtycow, CVE-2015-1805)
Bootloader unlocking and custom recovery installation
ADB (Android Debug Bridge) exploitation
Malicious apps exploiting system vulnerabilities
Physical access attacks via USB debugging
Exploiting OEM-specific vulnerabilities

Attack Methodology

Step-by-step process used to exploit this vulnerability

1
Identify target Android version and device model
2
Research known vulnerabilities for the specific Android version
3
Enable USB debugging or exploit ADB vulnerabilities
4
Deploy exploit payload (e.g., dirtycow, framaroot)
5
Escalate privileges to root
6
Install root management tools (Magisk, SuperSU)
7
Bypass SELinux policies and security restrictions
8
Install persistent backdoor or malware

Mitigations & Defense

Recommended security measures to prevent and detect this attack

Keep Android OS and security patches up to date
Disable USB debugging when not needed
Enable Google Play Protect and verify app sources
Use device encryption and strong lock screen protection
Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions
Monitor for root detection using SafetyNet/Play Integrity
Use verified boot and locked bootloader
Deploy application whitelisting and runtime protection

Impact & Mitigations Taxonomy

Visual comparison of attack impact and defense strategies

Android Root Exploitation Impact and Mitigations

Real-World Examples

Documented instances of this attack in the wild

•Dirty COW (CVE-2016-5195) affecting Android 7.0 and earlier
•Framaroot tool exploiting multiple Android vulnerabilities
•KingRoot exploiting various kernel vulnerabilities
•Stagefright vulnerabilities (CVE-2015-1538, CVE-2015-1539)
•Android malware families using root exploits (Triada, xHelper)

Related Attacks

Other attacks related to this vulnerability

Android App Vulnerabilities Android Runtime Exploitation

References

Additional resources and documentation