CVE-2015-9120 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Android before 2018-04-05 or earlier security patch level on Qualcomm Snapdragon Automobile, Snapdragon Mobile, and Snapdragon Wear IPQ4019, MDM9206, MDM9607, MSM8909W, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 400, SD 410/12, SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 600, SD 615/16/SD 415, SD 617, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 800, SD 808, SD 810, SD 820, SD 820A, and SD 835, detection of Error Condition Without Action in Core.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-9120 represents a critical flaw in Android operating systems affecting numerous Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset variants deployed in automotive, mobile, and wearable devices. This weakness resides in the core system components where error conditions are detected but not properly handled, creating a potential attack surface that adversaries could exploit to compromise device integrity. The vulnerability specifically impacts devices manufactured with Qualcomm Snapdragon Automotive, Mobile, and Wear platforms including models such as the SD 210, SD 400, SD 600, SD 800 series, and others that were released prior to the 2018-04-05 security patch level. The flaw constitutes a failure in the error handling mechanisms that are fundamental to system stability and security operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the absence of appropriate action when specific error conditions are encountered within the core system components. This type of flaw aligns with CWE-754, which describes "Improper Check for Exceptional Conditions" and is classified under the broader category of error handling weaknesses. When the system detects an error condition that should trigger a protective mechanism or system shutdown, the lack of proper response allows the device to continue operating in an unstable state. This behavior creates opportunities for privilege escalation, system crashes, or potentially more severe consequences depending on the specific implementation details of the affected components. The error detection mechanism itself functions correctly, but the subsequent action or lack thereof creates the exploitable gap.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-9120 extends beyond simple system instability to potentially enable sophisticated attack vectors that could compromise device security and functionality. In automotive environments, this vulnerability could affect vehicle infotainment systems, telematics units, or other critical automotive electronics that rely on Snapdragon chipsets. The absence of proper error handling could allow attackers to manipulate system behavior through carefully crafted inputs or conditions that trigger the vulnerable error paths. This weakness particularly concerns automotive applications where system reliability and security are paramount, as it could potentially enable unauthorized access to vehicle control systems or compromise the integrity of automotive communication protocols. The vulnerability's presence in multiple chipset generations suggests a widespread impact across various device categories and manufacturers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-9120 require immediate implementation of the latest security patches released by Qualcomm and device manufacturers, as these updates specifically address the error handling deficiencies in the affected core components. Organizations should prioritize patch management for all devices running affected Snapdragon chipsets and ensure that automotive systems receive appropriate firmware updates through established vehicle maintenance channels. The implementation of additional monitoring mechanisms to detect anomalous system behavior or error condition patterns can serve as a secondary defense measure. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit potential attack surface exposure, particularly in automotive environments where these devices may be connected to critical infrastructure systems. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1068, "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation," indicates that proper patching and system hardening measures are essential to prevent exploitation that could lead to elevated system privileges and further compromise of affected devices.