CVE-2015-9170 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 MDM9206, MDM9650, MSM8909W, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 400, SD 410/12, SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 615/16/SD 415, SD 617, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 800, SD 808, SD 810, SD 820, SD 820A, SD 835, SD 845, and SD 850, incorrect offset check in wv_dash_core_refresh_keys() may lead to a buffer overread.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-9170 represents a critical buffer overread flaw affecting Qualcomm Snapdragon automotive and mobile platforms. This issue resides within the wv_dash_core_refresh_keys() function, which processes digital rights management operations for media content. The flaw manifests when the system performs offset validation checks during key refresh operations, specifically in the context of Widevine DRM implementation. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Snapdragon chipsets including automotive variants like MDM9206 and MDM9650 alongside mobile and wearable processors such as MSM8909W, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 400, SD 410/12, SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 615/16/SD 415, SD 617, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 800, SD 808, SD 810, SD 820, SD 820A, SD 835, SD 845, and SD 850. This extensive chipset coverage indicates the vulnerability's widespread impact across Qualcomm's automotive and mobile product lines. The incorrect offset check in the wv_dash_core_refresh_keys() function creates a scenario where memory access beyond allocated buffers occurs, potentially allowing attackers to read sensitive data from adjacent memory regions. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-125, which specifically addresses "Out-of-bounds Read" conditions, and represents a classic buffer overread attack vector. The vulnerability's classification aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage, as exploitation could involve manipulating media processing components to trigger memory corruption. The flaw's presence in Android systems before the 2018-04-05 security patch level demonstrates the persistence of this issue across multiple Android versions and security updates, indicating a fundamental flaw in the DRM implementation rather than a transient issue. The buffer overread condition could potentially expose sensitive information including cryptographic keys, user data, or system memory contents, making it particularly dangerous in automotive environments where security is paramount. Exploitation of this vulnerability could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to protected media content or potentially escalate privileges within the system. The impact extends beyond simple data exposure as the vulnerability could facilitate more sophisticated attacks including privilege escalation or denial of service conditions. The technical nature of this flaw suggests that attackers could leverage it to extract information from memory locations adjacent to the vulnerable buffer, potentially accessing sensitive system components or user credentials. The vulnerability's exploitation requires specific conditions related to media processing and DRM operations, making it less likely to be exploited in the wild but still representing a significant security risk. Organizations deploying these Qualcomm chipsets in automotive applications must consider the potential for supply chain attacks or targeted exploitation of connected vehicle systems. The vulnerability's resolution requires patching the affected Android systems with the appropriate security updates from Google and Qualcomm, emphasizing the importance of timely security maintenance in automotive and mobile environments. This flaw underscores the critical need for robust memory management practices in embedded systems and highlights the risks associated with complex DRM implementations in automotive platforms where system integrity is essential for safety and security.