CVE-2015-9028 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, a buffer overflow vulnerability exists in a cryptographic routine.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-9028 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the cryptographic routines of Android devices that utilize the Linux kernel from Code Aurora Forum. This issue affects all Android releases that incorporate kernel components originating from the Code Aurora Forum, creating a widespread impact across numerous mobile devices and embedded systems. The vulnerability resides in the cryptographic processing mechanisms that handle security-sensitive operations, making it particularly dangerous as it could potentially compromise the integrity of cryptographic operations that protect user data and system security. The buffer overflow condition occurs when the cryptographic routine processes input data that exceeds the allocated buffer space, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited by malicious actors.
This technical flaw falls under the category of CWE-121, which describes a stack-based buffer overflow condition, and represents a direct threat to the security of cryptographic implementations within the Android ecosystem. The vulnerability manifests in the kernel-level cryptographic routines where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The operational impact extends beyond simple memory corruption, as the compromised cryptographic functions could enable attackers to decrypt sensitive data, forge digital signatures, or manipulate security certificates that protect communications between devices and servers. The nature of this vulnerability makes it particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise device security, as it operates at a low level within the kernel where privileges are elevated and access to core security functions is granted.
The exploitation of CVE-2015-9028 requires an attacker to craft specific inputs that trigger the buffer overflow condition within the cryptographic processing code. This typically involves sending malformed data to cryptographic services that handle encryption, decryption, or digital signature operations. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by its presence in the Linux kernel, which means that successful exploitation could lead to privilege escalation and full system compromise. From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability represents a significant risk to mobile device security, as it affects the fundamental cryptographic protections that ensure data confidentiality, integrity, and authentication. The issue is particularly concerning because cryptographic routines are critical for secure communications, secure boot processes, and the overall security architecture of Android devices.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper bounds checking and input validation within the cryptographic routines. Security patches typically involve updating the kernel components to include proper buffer size validation and memory management practices. Organizations should prioritize applying security updates from their device manufacturers and ensure that all Android devices are running patched kernel versions. The implementation of address space layout randomization and stack canaries can provide additional protection against exploitation attempts. From a defensive standpoint, monitoring network traffic for anomalous cryptographic operations and implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify potential exploitation attempts represents a proactive approach to mitigating the risks associated with this vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the technique of privilege escalation through kernel exploits, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security measures that address both the immediate vulnerability and broader system security posture.