CVE-2014-9931 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A buffer overflow vulnerability in all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel can potentially occur if an OEM performs an app region size customization due to a hard-coded value.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/24/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9931 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw affecting Android devices that utilize the Linux kernel and are manufactured by companies within the Code Aurora Forum. This issue stems from a hardcoded value in the kernel implementation that fails to account for custom app region sizes potentially implemented by original equipment manufacturers during device customization processes. The flaw exists at the kernel level and affects all Android versions released through the Code Aurora Forum, making it a widespread concern across numerous device models and manufacturers. The vulnerability manifests when the system attempts to handle memory regions that exceed the predetermined buffer limits, creating potential exploitation vectors for malicious actors seeking to compromise device integrity.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of memory allocation within the Linux kernel's Android implementation where a fixed buffer size is hardcoded without consideration for OEM-specific modifications. When an OEM customizes the application region size, the hardcoded value in the kernel code becomes incompatible with the actual memory requirements, leading to buffer overflow conditions. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and potentially CWE-122 for heap-based buffer overflows that may occur during memory management operations. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and memory management practices that are fundamental to secure system design and align with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers the use of privileges and capabilities to execute malicious code.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-9931 extends beyond individual device compromise to potentially affect entire device ecosystems, particularly those manufactured by OEMs that have implemented custom memory region configurations. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise, persistent backdoor installation, and unauthorized data access. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be achieved through carefully crafted memory operations that trigger the buffer overflow condition. Given that this affects the Linux kernel layer, successful exploitation could result in complete device takeover, data exfiltration, and the ability to modify system files, making it particularly dangerous for mobile devices that often contain sensitive personal and corporate information. The widespread nature of the issue means that numerous Android devices across different manufacturers and model lines could be vulnerable, creating a significant security risk for users and organizations relying on these platforms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9931 require immediate patching of affected kernel implementations through official security updates from device manufacturers and Google. Organizations should prioritize updating their Android devices to versions that address this specific buffer overflow vulnerability, particularly focusing on kernel-level patches that correct the hardcoded buffer size values. System administrators should implement monitoring for unusual memory allocation patterns and potential exploitation attempts, while also reviewing OEM customization practices that may contribute to the vulnerability. The solution involves modifying the kernel code to dynamically adjust buffer sizes based on actual memory requirements rather than relying on hardcoded values, which aligns with secure coding practices recommended by NIST and other cybersecurity frameworks. Additionally, device manufacturers should conduct thorough security reviews of their kernel implementations and ensure proper buffer management practices are implemented to prevent similar issues in future releases, particularly focusing on memory allocation strategies that accommodate various OEM customization requirements while maintaining security integrity.