CVE-2015-6618 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
Bluetooth in Android 4.4 and 5.x before 5.1.1 LMY48Z allows user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by leveraging access to the local physical environment, aka internal bug 24595992.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/19/2018
This vulnerability affects Bluetooth implementations in Android versions 4.4 and 5.x prior to 5.1.1 LMY48Z, representing a critical security flaw that enables remote code execution through physical proximity attacks. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of Bluetooth connection parameters and authentication mechanisms, creating an attack surface that can be exploited by adversaries who have physical access to the target device. The flaw is categorized under CWE-284 Access Control, specifically addressing inadequate permissions and authentication controls in wireless communication protocols. According to ATT&CK framework, this represents a privilege escalation technique through physical access vectors, falling under the category of Physical Access and Local System Permissions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the Bluetooth stack's failure to properly validate incoming connection requests and authentication sequences. Attackers can leverage this weakness by positioning themselves within the physical range of a target Android device and establishing unauthorized Bluetooth connections. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary code into the device's memory through carefully crafted Bluetooth packets that bypass normal security checks. This attack requires minimal user interaction beyond the initial physical proximity requirement, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical access can be obtained through social engineering or opportunistic means. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the Bluetooth security model where the system assumes that legitimate physical connections are inherently trustworthy.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-6618 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable complete system compromise and data exfiltration. Once exploited, attackers can gain persistent access to the device, potentially installing malware, accessing sensitive information, or using the compromised device as a pivot point for further attacks within a network. The vulnerability affects devices that rely on Bluetooth for connectivity, including smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where such devices are prevalent. Organizations using affected Android versions face significant risk of data breaches, privacy violations, and potential regulatory compliance issues under data protection regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of affected Android devices to version 5.1.1 LMY48Z or later, which addresses the Bluetooth authentication and connection validation issues. Network administrators should implement Bluetooth disable policies on devices that do not require wireless connectivity, particularly in high-security environments. Device hardening measures include disabling Bluetooth when not in use, implementing strict Bluetooth pairing requirements, and monitoring for unauthorized Bluetooth connections. Security teams should conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify and remediate similar issues in other wireless protocols and ensure that physical security measures complement digital security controls. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that protect against both remote and physical access threats.