CVE-2015-9182 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, lack of input validation in OEMCrypto_GenerateSignature() can cause buffer over read.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-9182 represents a critical buffer overread flaw within the OEMCrypto_GenerateSignature() function of Qualcomm Snapdragon automotive and mobile platform implementations. This issue affects Android devices released prior to the 2018-04-05 security patch level and impacts a wide range of Snapdragon chipsets including the MDM9206, MDM9650, MSM8909W, and numerous SD series processors from SD 210 through SD 850. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly check buffer boundaries during cryptographic signature generation operations, creating a pathway for malicious actors to potentially access sensitive memory regions beyond intended data boundaries.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and more specifically with CWE-125, indicating out-of-bounds read vulnerabilities. The operational impact extends beyond simple memory corruption as it provides attackers with potential access to confidential cryptographic material, device identifiers, and other sensitive information stored in adjacent memory locations. Attackers could exploit this weakness to extract encryption keys, device-specific identifiers, or other proprietary data that could compromise the security of the entire platform. The vulnerability exists in the OEMCrypto component which is responsible for handling device-specific cryptographic operations and secure boot processes, making it particularly dangerous for automotive applications where vehicle security is paramount.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, specifically the use of command and scripting interpreter through application-specific interfaces, as attackers could potentially leverage the buffer overread to execute unauthorized code or extract sensitive data. The widespread impact across multiple Snapdragon chipsets indicates this represents a systemic weakness in Qualcomm's implementation of cryptographic functions rather than an isolated issue. Organizations utilizing affected platforms must consider this vulnerability as part of their broader security posture assessment, particularly in automotive environments where compromised device security could lead to unauthorized vehicle access or data breaches. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and boundary checking in cryptographic implementations, as outlined in industry best practices for secure coding standards.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch deployment through the Android security update cycle, ensuring all affected devices receive the appropriate security patches. System administrators should also implement monitoring for anomalous cryptographic operations and memory access patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of thorough input validation in security-critical components, particularly those handling cryptographic operations. Organizations should conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all affected devices and implement layered security approaches including network segmentation, access controls, and regular security audits to minimize potential exploitation risks. The incident underscores the necessity for continuous security testing and validation of cryptographic implementations, especially in automotive and mobile platforms where security failures can have significant operational and safety implications.