CVE-2014-9903 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
The sched_read_attr function in kernel/sched/core.c in the Linux kernel 3.14-rc before 3.14-rc4 uses an incorrect size, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information from kernel stack memory via a crafted sched_getattr system call.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9903 resides within the Linux kernel's scheduling subsystem, specifically in the sched_read_attr function located in kernel/sched/core.c. This flaw represents a classic information disclosure vulnerability that affects Linux kernel versions 3.14-rc through 3.14-rc3, creating a pathway for local attackers to extract sensitive data from kernel memory spaces. The vulnerability stems from an incorrect memory buffer sizing implementation that fails to properly validate the size parameter during system call processing, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the kernel's memory access patterns.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a crafted sched_getattr system call that leverages the improper buffer size handling in the sched_read_attr function. When a local user executes this specific system call with manipulated parameters, the kernel's memory management routines fail to properly constrain the data read from kernel stack memory regions. This incorrect sizing allows the system call to read beyond the intended buffer boundaries, effectively exposing kernel stack contents to user-space applications. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read, specifically manifesting as improper input validation during kernel memory operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-9903 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the leaked kernel stack memory may contain sensitive data including cryptographic keys, passwords, session tokens, and other confidential information that could be leveraged for further exploitation. Attackers can use this information to escalate privileges, bypass security mechanisms, or conduct more sophisticated attacks against the compromised system. This vulnerability particularly affects systems running Linux kernel versions in the 3.14 release cycle, making it a significant concern for organizations maintaining older kernel versions or those that have not applied the relevant security patches.
The mitigation strategy for this vulnerability involves applying the official kernel patch released as part of the 3.14-rc4 release, which corrects the buffer size calculation in the sched_read_attr function. System administrators should prioritize updating their kernel versions to 3.14-rc4 or later, as this patch specifically addresses the memory boundary violation that enables the information disclosure. Organizations should also implement monitoring for unusual sched_getattr system call patterns and consider employing kernel hardening techniques such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization to reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation in kernel space operations and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 by enabling privilege escalation through kernel memory manipulation.