CVE-2014-9964 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, an integer overflow vulnerability exists in debug functionality.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9964 represents a critical integer overflow flaw located within the debug functionality of Android systems that utilize the Linux kernel from Code Aurora Forum. This issue affects all Android releases that incorporate kernel components developed by CAF, creating a widespread exposure across multiple device implementations and manufacturers. The vulnerability specifically manifests in the kernel-level debug subsystem, where improper handling of integer values leads to potential exploitation opportunities that could compromise system integrity and security posture.
This integer overflow vulnerability occurs within the kernel debug functionality, which typically includes mechanisms for debugging kernel modules, memory inspection, and system diagnostics. The flaw arises when the kernel processes debug commands or data structures that involve integer arithmetic operations, particularly in scenarios where input values exceed the maximum representable value for the target integer type. The overflow condition can result in unexpected behavior where the integer wraps around to a negative value or zero, potentially causing memory corruption, privilege escalation, or denial of service conditions. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow and underflow conditions, and represents a fundamental weakness in the kernel's input validation and arithmetic handling mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-9964 extends beyond simple system instability, as it provides potential attackers with pathways to escalate privileges within the kernel space. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious debug commands or inputs that trigger the integer overflow condition, potentially leading to unauthorized access to kernel memory regions, modification of critical system data, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it exists within debug functionality that may be accessible to userspace applications or even unprivileged users in certain configurations, making it an attractive target for exploitation. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers the use of privilege escalation techniques through kernel exploits, and demonstrates how seemingly benign debug features can become weaponized attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9964 should focus on both immediate patching and architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging. Organizations should prioritize applying kernel updates that address the integer overflow condition in the debug subsystem, ensuring that all affected Android devices receive timely security patches. Additionally, implementing runtime protections such as kernel address space layout randomization, stack canaries, and enhanced input validation for debug interfaces can help reduce the exploitability of similar vulnerabilities. System administrators should also consider disabling unnecessary debug functionality in production environments and implementing monitoring for suspicious debug activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of thorough security testing for kernel subsystems, particularly those with elevated privileges, and emphasizes the need for adherence to secure coding practices that prevent integer overflow conditions in all arithmetic operations within kernel space.