CVE-2016-11031

Vulnerability

An issue exists in the AntService component of Samsung mobile devices running Android versions KK (4.4), L (5.0/5.1), and M (6.0). The vulnerability allows a system_server crash, resulting in an unexpected reboot. The exact software logic or input that triggers the flaw is not detailed in the available references, but the Samsung Security Update portal confirms the issue (SVE-2016-7044) [1].

Exploitation

To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker requires some form of access to the device such that they can interact with AntService in a way that causes the system_server to crash. The specific prerequisites—whether the attacker needs to be local or remote, or if user interaction is required—are not disclosed in the provided reference material [1].

Impact

Successful exploitation results in a denial-of-service condition: the system_server crashes and the device reboots. This can disrupt device operation until the restart completes, potentially causing temporary loss of service or data in transit. There is no indication of data leakage, privilege escalation, or remote code execution beyond the crash-reboot scenario [1].

Mitigation

Samsung has acknowledged this vulnerability and includes it in their monthly security update process. Users are advised to apply the latest security updates from Samsung Mobile Security as referenced [1]. The fix is part of the November 2016 security patch level, but specific patched version numbers for each affected Android branch are not detailed in the provided references.