As GrapheneOS continues to bolster user security within the Android ecosystem, the team shed light on firmware vulnerabilities affecting popular Android devices like Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones.
These vulnerabilities, if exploited, could compromise user data and enable unauthorized surveillance during the device's inactive state.
Auto-Reboot: A Shield Against Firmware Exploits
Since firmware exploits can happen everywhere, Android was reminded that it should bring an auto-reboot feature that will make firmware exploitation a chore.
We've recently reported firmware vulnerabilities that are being exploited by forensic companies to obtain data from devices that are not at rest. If device is at rest, it isn't relevant and data is safe. Our auto-reboot feature is there to get devices back at rest automatically.
— GrapheneOS (@GrapheneOS) January 11, 2024
The GrapheneOS team advocates for the introduction of an auto-reboot feature in Android to strengthen defenses against firmware flaws.
According to Bleeping Computer, the proposed mechanism aims to disrupt potential exploits by regularly resetting the device. This preventative measure becomes particularly crucial when the device is not in a secure state, such as when it has not been unlocked after booting up.
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Understanding Device States: 'At Rest' vs. 'Not At Rest'
A device is considered "at rest" when either powered off or hasn't been unlocked post-boot.
During this state, privacy protections are at their zenith, as encryption keys remain inaccessible to installed apps. However, the first unlock after a reboot transitions the device to a "not at rest" state, making it susceptible to certain security exemptions.
Auto-Reboot Implementation by GrapheneOS
GrapheneOS has implemented an auto-reboot system in its operating system, resetting the device every 72 hours.
The primary goal is to minimize the window of opportunity for potential attackers. However, the developers acknowledge the need for a more frequent reboot cycle and plan to reduce the duration.
Beyond Screen Locking and Flight Modes
The GrapheneOS team emphasizes that locking the screen post-device usage doesn't restore the device to the "at rest" state due to persistent security exemptions. Additionally, flight modes on smartphones may not be foolproof, as they can still facilitate data exchange through various channels like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and USB Ethernet.
Delving into PIN/password security, the developers highlight the critical role these authentication methods play in encrypting device data. They highlight the secure element throttling as a vital measure to safeguard against brute-force attacks that target short PINs and passphrases.
New GrapheneOS Update
GrapheneOS reported the discovered vulnerabilities to Google's Android Vulnerability Reward Program, triggering a review process. Google affirmed receipt of the report, acknowledging the collaboration with GrapheneOS in addressing these issues.
In an update, a GrapheneOS spokesperson revealed enhancements to their auto-reboot system. The implementation has been re-engineered for increased robustness, with the auto-reboot timer now set to 18 hours since the last unlock.
While addressing firmware bugs directly poses challenges due to hardware limitations, GrapheneOS suggests firmware memory erasure on reboots and proposes improvements to the device administration API for more secure wipes.
In late December 2023, Android revealed a feature that could tell users about the battery health of their Android device.
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