google-tvanymote

Reboot Google TV device through Anymote protocol?


I am attempting to reboot a Google TV device remotely through the Anymote protocols. When I send CTRL+ALT+DEL through anymote, nothing happens. Is it possible to reboot Google TV devices remotely? Would it be possible to do by sending an Android Intent?


Solution

  • I assume this is done purposely.

    Normally, an app requires the permission: "android.intent.action.REBOOT" to successfully reboot() the device. However, this permission can only be granted to system apps.

    Allowing the device to reboot through the Anymote protocol would be a good example of Privilege Escalation where a system app is exposing this secure functionality to other apps without encforcing permissions.

    So in response to your question: if the Anymote protocol did support rebooting it would be a security violation. And since it apparently doesn't, there is simply no way to reboot the TV without being a system app...


    (Relevant aside: this is why it's always important that you review your app for potential security holes. If you request a permission and don't properly restrict access to it, you will be allowing other apps to exploit the flaw)