CVE-2016-10283 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Qualcomm Wi-Fi driver could enable a local malicious application to execute arbitrary code within the context of the kernel. This issue is rated as High because it first requires compromising a privileged process. Product: Android. Versions: Kernel-3.10, Kernel-3.18. Android ID: A-32094986. References: QC-CR#2002052.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/25/2020
This vulnerability represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the Qualcomm Wi-Fi driver component of Android systems, specifically affecting kernel versions 3.10 and 3.18. The issue stems from improper input validation and memory management within the wireless networking subsystem, creating a pathway for local malicious applications to escalate their privileges and execute code with kernel-level permissions. The vulnerability's classification as High severity reflects the substantial attack surface it provides, as it requires compromising a privileged process before exploitation can occur, making it particularly dangerous in environments where such processes are accessible to malicious actors.
The technical flaw manifests in the Qualcomm Wi-Fi driver's handling of specific network packets or driver interfaces that allow for arbitrary code execution within kernel space. This typically occurs through buffer overflow conditions, improper memory access patterns, or insufficient validation of user-supplied data passed to kernel functions. The vulnerability exploits weaknesses in the kernel's privilege separation mechanisms, enabling an attacker with local access to a device to leverage the compromised privileged process and gain direct control over kernel memory spaces. This type of flaw aligns with CWE-119, which addresses weaknesses in memory safety and improper access to memory regions, and represents a classic example of a kernel-level privilege escalation vulnerability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over the device's wireless networking capabilities and potentially broader system access. Once exploited, the malicious application could manipulate network configurations, intercept wireless communications, or establish persistent backdoors within the kernel space. The vulnerability affects Android devices running the specified kernel versions, making it particularly concerning given the widespread deployment of Qualcomm-based hardware in mobile devices. Attackers could potentially use this vulnerability to compromise device integrity, access sensitive data, or establish persistent access to targeted systems, with implications for both individual privacy and enterprise security.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected kernel versions through official Android security updates or device manufacturer patches. System administrators and security teams should prioritize updating all devices running kernel versions 3.10 and 3.18 to prevent exploitation. Additional protective measures include implementing application sandboxing controls, monitoring for unusual network activity patterns, and enforcing strict access controls on privileged processes. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation', and represents a common attack vector in mobile device exploitation frameworks. Organizations should also consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts and maintain comprehensive incident response procedures for potential kernel-level compromise scenarios.