CVE-2026-0107 Overview
CVE-2026-0107 is a local privilege escalation vulnerability in Google Android. The flaw resides in the gmc_ddr_handle_mba_mr_req function of gmc_mba_ddr.c. A confused deputy condition [CWE-441] allows a local attacker to escalate privileges without additional execution rights. Exploitation requires no user interaction.
Google disclosed the issue in the Android Security Bulletin March 2026. The vulnerability affects core Android components and is also addressed in the Android Pixel Security Bulletin March 2026.
Critical Impact
Local attackers can gain elevated privileges on affected Android devices without user interaction, potentially compromising device integrity and accessing sensitive data.
Affected Products
- Google Android (per March 2026 Android Security Bulletin)
- Google Pixel devices (per March 2026 Pixel Security Bulletin)
- Devices using the affected gmc_mba_ddr component
Discovery Timeline
- 2026-03-10 - CVE-2026-0107 published to NVD
- 2026-03-11 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2026-0107
Vulnerability Analysis
The vulnerability exists in gmc_ddr_handle_mba_mr_req, a handler in gmc_mba_ddr.c that processes memory bus adapter (MBA) memory request operations. The function operates with elevated privileges to service requests on behalf of lower-privileged callers. Due to insufficient validation of caller context or request parameters, a less-privileged actor can induce the handler to perform actions beyond the caller's authorization level.
The weakness is categorized as a confused deputy [CWE-441]. In this pattern, a privileged component performs an operation requested by a less-privileged caller without adequately verifying that the caller has the right to request the operation. The privileged handler effectively becomes a proxy that grants the attacker access to resources or capabilities they should not possess.
Root Cause
The root cause is the failure of gmc_ddr_handle_mba_mr_req to properly authenticate or constrain the privileges associated with incoming MBA memory requests. The handler trusts caller-supplied parameters or context without enforcing strict authorization boundaries between privilege levels.
Attack Vector
An attacker requires local access to the device, typically through a malicious application or compromised process. The attacker crafts requests to the vulnerable handler to induce privileged operations. No user interaction or additional execution privileges are required. Successful exploitation results in escalation of privilege at the operating system level.
No public proof-of-concept exploit is available at the time of publication. Technical details of the handler implementation are not publicly disclosed beyond the Android Security Bulletin. Refer to the Android Security Bulletin March 2026 for additional context.
Detection Methods for CVE-2026-0107
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected privilege transitions in process audit logs originating from low-privileged applications
- Anomalous interactions with kernel components handling memory bus adapter requests
- Unauthorized modifications to system files or settings following installation of untrusted applications
- Crash logs or kernel panics referencing gmc_mba_ddr or related memory subsystem components
Detection Strategies
- Monitor installed applications for unusual system call patterns targeting low-level memory interfaces
- Apply mobile threat defense controls that flag privilege escalation behaviors on managed devices
- Correlate process telemetry with SELinux denials referencing the GMC or MBA subsystems
- Inventory Android device patch levels and identify endpoints missing the March 2026 security patch
Monitoring Recommendations
- Centralize Android device security patch level reporting through enterprise mobility management (EMM) platforms
- Forward mobile endpoint telemetry to a SIEM for correlation with privilege escalation indicators
- Alert on application installations from outside trusted distribution channels on managed devices
How to Mitigate CVE-2026-0107
Immediate Actions Required
- Apply the March 2026 Android security patch level (2026-03-01 or later) to all affected devices
- Pixel device administrators should apply the corresponding patch from the Android Pixel Security Bulletin March 2026
- Audit installed applications and remove untrusted or sideloaded apps from managed devices
- Enforce minimum patch level requirements through EMM or mobile device management (MDM) policies
Patch Information
Google has released fixes as part of the March 2026 Android Security Bulletin. Devices with a security patch level of 2026-03-01 or later contain the fix for CVE-2026-0107. OEM and carrier rollout timing varies by device. Consult the Android Security Bulletin March 2026 for source code patch references and affected component details.
Workarounds
- No vendor-supplied workaround exists; patching is the only complete remediation
- Restrict application installation to Google Play and other vetted sources to reduce local attack surface
- Block sideloading and developer mode on managed devices through MDM configuration profiles
- Decommission or isolate devices that cannot receive the March 2026 patch level
# Verify Android security patch level on a connected device
adb shell getprop ro.build.version.security_patch
# Expected output: 2026-03-01 or later
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
