CVE-2011-3874 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in libsysutils in Android 2.2.x through 2.2.2 and 2.3.x through 2.3.6 allows user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via an application that calls the FrameworkListener::dispatchCommand method with the wrong number of arguments, as demonstrated by zergRush to trigger a use-after-free error.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/20/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-3874 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow affecting Android operating systems version 2.2.x through 2.2.2 and 2.3.x through 2.3.6. This flaw exists within the libsysutils library component that serves as a foundational element for system utilities and framework operations. The vulnerability specifically targets the FrameworkListener::dispatchCommand method which handles command processing within the Android system framework. The buffer overflow occurs when applications invoke this method with an incorrect number of arguments, creating a condition where memory corruption can occur in the stack memory region. This particular vulnerability was notably exploited through the zergRush attack vector, which demonstrated how attackers could leverage this flaw to achieve arbitrary code execution on affected devices.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the FrameworkListener::dispatchCommand method. When the method receives an unexpected argument count, the system fails to properly bounds-check the stack memory allocation, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw manifests as a classic stack-based buffer overflow where the overflow occurs in the function's local stack variables, potentially corrupting the return address and control flow of the executing program. The vulnerability's exploitation requires an application to be installed on the target device, making it a user-assisted remote attack vector that can be triggered through malicious application installation or system manipulation. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in stack memory regions where insufficient bounds checking allows memory corruption.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-3874 extends beyond simple code execution, as demonstrated by the zergRush exploit that could trigger use-after-free errors in addition to the primary buffer overflow. This dual nature of exploitation increases the attack surface and potential damage, as attackers could leverage the vulnerability to gain elevated privileges or execute malicious payloads with system-level access. The affected Android versions represent a significant portion of the mobile device ecosystem at the time of discovery, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for widespread exploitation. The vulnerability's presence in libsysutils means that it affects core system functionality, potentially allowing attackers to compromise device integrity, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. The use-after-free component of the exploitation adds complexity to the attack, as it can create additional memory corruption scenarios that may be harder to detect and prevent.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate system updates and patches provided by Android developers, as the flaw exists at the system library level rather than in user applications. Organizations and users should prioritize updating to Android versions that contain fixes for this vulnerability, typically those beyond the affected 2.2.x through 2.3.6 release cycles. Security measures should include application vetting processes to prevent installation of malicious applications that could trigger the vulnerability, along with network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter indicates that attackers may use this flaw to execute system commands through the compromised framework. Implementation of runtime application protection mechanisms and stack canary techniques could provide additional defense-in-depth measures against similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities. Regular security assessments of system libraries and framework components remain essential for identifying and addressing similar weaknesses that could enable privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution attacks.