CVE-2014-9963 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, a buffer overflow vulnerability exists in WideVine DRM.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9963 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the WideVine Digital Rights Management implementation in Android devices that utilize the Linux kernel. This issue affects all Android versions released by Code Aurora Forum (CAF) and exposes devices to potential exploitation through maliciously crafted media content or DRM operations. The vulnerability resides in the kernel-level components responsible for handling WideVine DRM functionality, making it particularly concerning as it operates at a low system level where privilege escalation opportunities may exist.
The technical flaw manifests as an unchecked buffer overflow condition that occurs when processing WideVine DRM content within the Linux kernel environment. When the system attempts to handle certain DRM operations or media files, insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to write beyond allocated memory buffers, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through kernel modules. The buffer overflow can be triggered through malformed DRM content or by manipulating the DRM processing pipeline, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited without requiring user interaction or elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system instability, as it creates potential pathways for attackers to gain unauthorized access to device resources. Successful exploitation could enable malicious actors to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, potentially leading to complete device compromise, data exfiltration, or persistent backdoor installation. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Android devices that rely on CAF's kernel implementations, making it a widespread concern across multiple device manufacturers and models. This type of kernel-level vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates below the application layer where typical security controls may not be effective, and the exploitation can occur during normal media playback operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9963 should focus on immediate patching of affected Android versions and kernel components, with particular attention to the WideVine DRM implementation. Device manufacturers should prioritize rolling out security updates that address the specific buffer overflow conditions in the kernel modules handling DRM operations. System administrators and security teams should implement network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts and consider temporary disabling of WideVine DRM functionality on affected devices until patches are deployed. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all devices running affected Android versions and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place. The remediation process should include verification that the patched kernel components properly validate buffer boundaries and implement proper input sanitization techniques to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future, aligning with best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework.