CVE-2016-10386 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all Qualcomm products with Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, an array index out of bounds vulnerability exists in LPP.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10386 represents a critical array index out of bounds condition affecting Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets integrated into various Android devices through the Linux kernel implementation. This flaw specifically resides within the LPP component, which stands for Location Positioning Protocol, a subsystem responsible for handling location-based services and positioning data within mobile devices. The vulnerability affects all Qualcomm products utilizing Android releases from the Code Aurora Forum that incorporate the Linux kernel, indicating a widespread impact across multiple device manufacturers and model lines. The LPP subsystem plays a crucial role in processing GPS data and location information, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for mobile device security. The flaw stems from inadequate bounds checking within the array handling mechanisms, allowing potential attackers to manipulate input data that flows through this component.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it squarely within the CWE-129 category of "Improper Input Validation" and specifically manifests as CWE-125 "Out-of-bounds Read" which is classified under the broader weakness of improper input validation. The vulnerability occurs when the LPP subsystem processes location data without sufficient validation of array indices, enabling an attacker to provide malicious input that causes the system to read memory locations beyond the allocated array boundaries. This type of vulnerability can potentially lead to information disclosure, system instability, or even remote code execution depending on the specific implementation and surrounding security controls. The Linux kernel implementation in Qualcomm devices creates a complex attack surface where this flaw can be exploited through various vectors including malformed location data or manipulated GPS signals. The vulnerability's presence in the Code Aurora Forum releases indicates that it affects the upstream kernel components that many Android manufacturers adopt, amplifying the potential impact across the mobile ecosystem.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-10386 extends beyond simple data corruption or system crashes, as it represents a potential pathway for attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive location data or compromise device integrity. Mobile devices utilizing affected Qualcomm chipsets could be vulnerable to attacks that manipulate positioning data, potentially leading to location spoofing or privacy violations. The vulnerability's location within the LPP subsystem means that any application or service relying on GPS positioning could serve as an attack vector, particularly those that process location information from external sources. The widespread adoption of Qualcomm Snapdragon processors in smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices creates a substantial attack surface, as this vulnerability affects numerous device models from various manufacturers. The exploitation of this flaw could enable adversaries to execute arbitrary code within the device's operating system context, potentially leading to full device compromise or persistent backdoor access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10386 should focus on immediate patching of affected systems and implementation of additional defensive measures. Qualcomm released security updates addressing this vulnerability through their regular security bulletins, requiring device manufacturers to update their firmware and kernel implementations. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected devices to the latest security patches provided by Qualcomm and their respective manufacturers. Network-level defenses should include monitoring for anomalous location data patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, as well as implementing application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized access to location services. The vulnerability's nature as a kernel-level issue requires careful consideration of the entire device security architecture, including secure boot mechanisms and memory protection features. System administrators should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts, while monitoring for any unauthorized changes to location services or GPS functionality. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving privilege escalation and execution through kernel exploits, making it a significant concern for mobile device security and enterprise mobility management strategies.