CVE-2014-9946 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Core Kernel 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 • 10/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9946 represents a critical use after free condition within the Core Kernel component of Android systems based on the Linux kernel from the Code Aurora Forum. This flaw exists across all Android releases utilizing the Linux kernel framework and poses significant security risks to mobile device users and organizations relying on these platforms. The vulnerability stems from improper memory management practices within the kernel's core components, specifically affecting how the system handles memory allocation and deallocation processes. When a program attempts to access memory that has already been freed, the use after free condition can lead to arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs at the kernel level where memory management routines fail to properly track the lifecycle of allocated memory blocks. This condition typically arises when kernel code allocates memory for data structures and subsequently frees that memory without ensuring no further references exist to the freed memory location. Attackers can exploit this by carefully crafting inputs or system calls that trigger the memory management sequence, causing the kernel to free memory that is then accessed by malicious code. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is enhanced by the fact that it operates at the kernel level, providing attackers with elevated privileges and direct access to critical system resources. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses the use of freed memory conditions, and represents a classic example of improper memory management in kernel space.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-9946 extends beyond simple system crashes or instability, as it creates opportunities for sophisticated attacks that can compromise entire device ecosystems. Mobile device users face potential data breaches, unauthorized access to personal information, and complete system takeover capabilities when this vulnerability is exploited. Organizations utilizing Android-based devices for enterprise applications, healthcare systems, or financial services face significant risk exposure, as attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain persistent access to sensitive corporate networks. The vulnerability's presence across all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel means that a vast number of devices remain potentially vulnerable, creating widespread exposure across multiple device manufacturers and carrier networks. From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious applications, compromised network communications, or physical device access, making it particularly dangerous in environments where mobile device security is paramount.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9946 require immediate attention from device manufacturers, system administrators, and security professionals. The primary recommendation involves applying security patches and updates from device vendors as soon as they become available, as these updates typically include kernel-level fixes that address the memory management flaws. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management policies that prioritize kernel-level updates and conduct thorough testing before deployment to ensure system stability. Network monitoring solutions should be enhanced to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts, while endpoint protection measures should be strengthened to prevent malicious code execution. Security teams should also consider implementing device enrollment and management solutions that can automatically apply security updates and monitor for vulnerable configurations. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework as a kernel-level exploitation technique emphasizes the need for layered security approaches that include both preventive measures and detection capabilities. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify devices that remain vulnerable, while incident response procedures should be established to quickly address potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can enforce security policies and maintain visibility into device configurations to prevent exploitation of this and similar kernel-level vulnerabilities.