CVE-2014-9926 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In GNSS in all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, a Use After Free vulnerability could potentially exist.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9926 represents a critical security flaw within the Global Navigation Satellite Systems implementation across Android devices utilizing Qualcomm Snapdragon chips and the Linux kernel. This issue specifically affects GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) functionality, which encompasses GPS and related satellite navigation services that are fundamental to location-based applications and services on mobile devices. The vulnerability stems from improper memory management practices within the kernel-level GNSS driver code, creating conditions where freed memory blocks could be accessed or reused by subsequent operations.
The technical nature of this vulnerability manifests as a use-after-free condition, which occurs when a program continues to reference memory that has already been deallocated. In the context of the Android GNSS subsystem, this flaw likely emerges during the processing of satellite signals or location data updates where memory allocated for GNSS-related operations is freed but not properly invalidated. Attackers could potentially exploit this condition by crafting malicious satellite signals or manipulating the GNSS data flow to trigger the use-after-free scenario, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution within the kernel space. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-416, which specifically addresses the use of freed memory conditions in software development.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-9926 extends beyond simple privacy concerns, as it represents a potential pathway for attackers to gain elevated privileges within the device's operating system. Since the vulnerability exists within the Linux kernel layer that manages GNSS functionality, successful exploitation could enable adversaries to execute malicious code with kernel-level privileges, potentially compromising the entire device. This risk is particularly concerning given that GNSS functionality is integral to many security-critical applications including location-based services, emergency response systems, and various security protocols that depend on accurate positioning data. The vulnerability affects all Android releases utilizing Qualcomm chips, creating a widespread attack surface across numerous device models and manufacturers.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems through official security updates from device manufacturers and Google. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring of their mobile device fleets to identify and remediate affected devices promptly. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure memory management practices in kernel development and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers the exploitation of legitimate credentials and system privileges. Device security teams should consider implementing network-level monitoring for anomalous GNSS data patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, while also ensuring proper code review processes are in place to prevent similar memory management errors in future kernel implementations.