CVE-2014-9322 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 01/25/2023
arch/x86/kernel/entry_64.S in the Linux kernel before 3.17.5 does not properly handle faults associated with the Stack Segment (SS) segment register, which allows local users to gain privileges by triggering an IRET instruction that leads to access to a GS Base address from the wrong space.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9322 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the Linux kernel's x86_64 architecture implementation. This issue resides in the arch/x86/kernel/entry_64.S file and affects kernel versions prior to 3.17.5, making it a significant concern for systems running older kernel versions. The flaw specifically targets the handling of faults related to the Stack Segment (SS) segment register, which forms a fundamental component of the x86_64 memory management architecture. The vulnerability exploits a race condition or improper validation during interrupt return operations, creating a pathway for malicious code to manipulate system privileges.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from inadequate fault handling mechanisms when processing IRET (Interrupt Return) instructions in the kernel's 64-bit entry code. During normal operation, the kernel must properly validate segment register states and base addresses when transitioning between privilege levels. However, the flaw allows local attackers to craft specific conditions where an IRET instruction causes the processor to access the GS Base address from an incorrect memory space. This misalignment occurs because the kernel fails to properly verify the segment register state before performing memory operations that depend on the GS segment base. The vulnerability specifically relates to how the kernel handles the interaction between the SS segment register and the GS segment base during privilege transitions, creating a scenario where memory access controls can be bypassed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables local privilege escalation attacks that can be executed by any user with access to the system. An attacker can leverage this flaw to elevate their privileges from user level to kernel level, gaining complete control over the affected system. The attack vector requires the local user to trigger a specific sequence involving IRET instructions and segment register manipulation, which can be accomplished through carefully crafted kernel modules or system calls. Once successfully exploited, the attacker gains the ability to execute arbitrary code with the highest system privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or persistent backdoor installation. The vulnerability affects systems where the kernel is compiled with specific configurations that enable the problematic code path, particularly those running kernel versions between 2.6.32 and 3.17.4.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9322 primarily focus on kernel version upgrades to 3.17.5 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the segment register handling flaw. System administrators should prioritize updating their kernel installations to the patched versions as soon as possible, especially in production environments where local privilege escalation risks are unacceptable. Additionally, implementing kernel hardening measures such as kernel page table isolation, control flow integrity checks, and runtime protection mechanisms can provide additional layers of defense. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary kernel features and modules that might expose additional attack surfaces. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-119, which addresses memory access violations, and relates to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation through kernel exploits. Regular security auditing and monitoring for anomalous kernel behavior can help detect potential exploitation attempts, while maintaining up-to-date security patches remains the most effective defense mechanism against this and similar vulnerabilities.