CVE-2015-9114 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Android before 2018-04-05 or earlier security patch level on Qualcomm Snapdragon Automobile and Snapdragon Mobile SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 820, and SD 820A, lack of address argument validation in qsee_query_counter syscall could lead to untrusted pointer dereference.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-9114 represents a critical security flaw affecting Android devices equipped with Qualcomm Snapdragon automotive and mobile platforms. This issue stems from insufficient validation of address arguments within the qsee_query_counter system call, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit untrusted pointer dereference conditions. The vulnerability specifically impacts devices running Android versions prior to the 2018-04-05 security patch level, making a substantial portion of the mobile ecosystem susceptible to this class of attack. The affected Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets include the SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 820, and SD 820A processors, which are widely deployed in automotive infotainment systems and consumer mobile devices. The root cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-476, which describes null pointer dereference conditions, and more specifically with CWE-125, representing out-of-bounds read vulnerabilities that can occur when improper validation leads to accessing memory locations outside the intended bounds. This flaw exists within the Qualcomm Secure Execution Environment (QSEE) subsystem, which is responsible for managing secure operations and maintaining the integrity of sensitive system functions. The technical exploitation of this vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate memory pointers through the qsee_query_counter syscall, potentially enabling privilege escalation and unauthorized access to secure system components. The operational impact extends beyond simple memory corruption, as this vulnerability can be leveraged to bypass security mechanisms and access confidential data or system resources that should remain protected. According to ATT&CK framework category T1068, this vulnerability could be used to gain system privileges through local exploitation, while T1190 represents the initial access vector that might involve exploiting the vulnerable system call to establish a foothold. The attack surface is particularly concerning in automotive environments where Snapdragon Automotive platforms are deployed, as these systems often handle critical vehicle functions and connected services that require robust security protections. The lack of proper input validation in the kernel-level system call creates a persistent risk that can be exploited by attackers with local access to the device. Organizations deploying affected devices should prioritize immediate patching of the Android security vulnerabilities and implement additional monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of validating all system call arguments, particularly those involving memory addresses, and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of kernel components in mobile and automotive platforms. Mitigation strategies should include not only applying the relevant security patches but also implementing runtime protections and monitoring for anomalous system call behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the complex security challenges inherent in embedded systems and the critical need for thorough security validation across all system components, particularly those operating in sensitive environments like automotive platforms where system integrity directly impacts safety and security.