CVE-2014-1909 in Android SDK
Summary
by MITRE
Integer signedness error in system/core/adb/adb_client.c in Android Debug Bridge (ADB) for Android 4.4 in the Android SDK Platform Tools 18.0.1 allows ADB servers to execute arbitrary code via a negative length value, which bypasses a signed comparison and triggers a stack-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-1909 represents a critical integer signedness error within the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) component of Android 4.4 systems. This flaw exists in the system/core/adb/adb_client.c file and specifically affects the Android SDK Platform Tools version 18.0.1. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of length parameters during ADB communication processes, creating a pathway for malicious code execution that bypasses standard security mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a fundamental flaw in how ADB processes data length values during communication protocols. When an attacker sends a specially crafted negative length value to an ADB server, the system performs a signed comparison that fails to properly validate the input. This signedness error allows the negative value to bypass validation checks and subsequently triggers a stack-based buffer overflow condition. The flaw occurs because the code assumes all length values are positive integers, failing to account for negative values that could manipulate memory allocation behavior. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow and underflow conditions, and more broadly with CWE-129, addressing improper validation of array indices and buffer bounds.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to Android devices through ADB services. Attackers can exploit this weakness by establishing connections to ADB servers and sending maliciously formatted data packets containing negative length values. Once exploited, the buffer overflow allows for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the ADB service, potentially leading to complete device compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because ADB is enabled by default on many Android devices, especially in development environments, making it a prime target for exploitation. This weakness directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-1909 require immediate implementation of software updates and patches from Google to address the integer signedness error in ADB components. Organizations should disable ADB services on production devices where possible and implement network-level restrictions to prevent unauthorized access to ADB ports. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for unusual ADB activity and implement proper access controls to limit who can connect to ADB services. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and integer handling in security-critical components, emphasizing that even seemingly minor coding errors in system utilities can result in severe security implications. Regular security audits of embedded systems and mobile platform components should include thorough examination of integer handling and buffer management practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future releases.