CVE-2016-10412 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Android before 2018-04-05 or earlier security patch level on Qualcomm Small Cell SoC, Snapdragon Mobile, and Snapdragon Wear FSM9055, MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9615, MDM9635M, MDM9640, MDM9650, MSM8909W, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 400, SD 410/12, SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 600, SD 615/16/SD 415, SD 617, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 800, SD 808, SD 810, SD 820, SD 835, and SDX20, an integer overflow leading to buffer overflow can potentially occur in a memory API function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10412 represents a critical integer overflow condition that can lead to buffer overflow within memory API functions of various Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets. This issue affects Android devices released before the 2018-04-05 security patch level, specifically targeting Qualcomm Small Cell SoC platforms including FSM9055, MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9615, MDM9635M, MDM9640, MDM9650, MSM8909W, and numerous Snapdragon Mobile and Wear processors such as SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 400, SD 410/12, SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 600, SD 615/16/SD 415, SD 617, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 800, SD 808, SD 810, SD 820, SD 835, and SDX20. The flaw resides in the improper handling of integer values during memory allocation operations, where an attacker can manipulate input parameters to cause arithmetic overflow that subsequently results in insufficient buffer sizing.
This vulnerability falls under CWE-190, Integer Overflow or Wraparound, which is a well-documented weakness in software systems where integer values exceed their maximum representable range, leading to unexpected behavior. The technical implementation of this flaw occurs within memory management APIs where integer variables representing buffer sizes or array indices are not properly validated against overflow conditions. When an integer overflow occurs, the subsequent buffer allocation may result in a smaller buffer than required, creating a scenario where subsequent memory writes can overwrite adjacent memory locations. The operational impact is significant as this vulnerability can be exploited to execute arbitrary code within the context of privileged system processes, potentially allowing for complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this weakness to manipulate memory contents, bypass security restrictions, and escalate privileges.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, and T1059, Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables attackers to gain elevated privileges and execute malicious code. The affected Snapdragon platforms represent a substantial portion of mobile devices deployed in enterprise and consumer markets, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous from a threat landscape perspective. The integer overflow specifically occurs during memory API function calls where input parameters are not adequately sanitized or validated, creating a predictable pattern of exploitation. Security researchers have noted that the vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple buffer overflows to include potential denial of service conditions and information disclosure, as the corrupted memory can expose sensitive data or cause system instability.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate application of the relevant Android security patches released in the 2018-04-05 update cycle, which address the integer overflow conditions in the affected memory management functions. Device manufacturers and carriers must ensure timely deployment of these patches to protect their user base from exploitation. Additionally, implementing memory safety checks and bounds validation within memory API implementations can prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in future software releases. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of rigorous input validation and integer handling in system-level code, particularly within memory management functions that operate with potentially untrusted data from various system components. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime monitoring and memory protection mechanisms to detect and prevent exploitation attempts against similar vulnerabilities.