CVE-2016-10230 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in the Qualcomm crypto driver. Product: Android. Versions: Android kernel. Android ID: A-34389927. References: QC-CR#1091408.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/08/2021
This vulnerability represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Qualcomm crypto driver component of Android kernel implementations. The issue stems from improper input validation and memory handling within the cryptographic subsystem that processes hardware-based encryption operations. The vulnerability affects devices running Android operating systems where Qualcomm's proprietary crypto driver is utilized for hardware-accelerated cryptographic functions, creating a significant attack surface for malicious actors targeting mobile device security.
The technical flaw manifests through a buffer overflow condition that occurs when processing specially crafted cryptographic requests through the Qualcomm crypto driver interface. This allows attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges typically associated with kernel-level operations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the kernel level where it can bypass standard user-space security controls and access system resources directly. The flaw is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which represents a well-known weakness in memory management that enables attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations and manipulate program execution flow.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Attackers can exploit this weakness to install persistent backdoors, modify system binaries, access encrypted data stores, and potentially escalate privileges to gain full administrative control over affected devices. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation can occur without physical access to the device, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where mobile devices handle sensitive corporate data. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, demonstrating the comprehensive attack surface this vulnerability creates.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch deployment through official Android security updates and Qualcomm firmware releases. Organizations should implement network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts and establish device enrollment policies that enforce timely security updates. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure code review practices and proper memory management in kernel-level components, particularly those handling cryptographic operations. Additionally, device manufacturers should consider implementing runtime protection mechanisms and enhanced input validation to prevent similar issues in future implementations. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical security implications of hardware-based cryptographic components and the need for comprehensive security testing across all system layers including proprietary vendor drivers that interface with core operating system functionality.