CVE-2016-10433 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 MDM9635M, MDM9640, MDM9645, 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 820, and SD 820A, TOCTOU vulnerability during SSD image decryption may cause memory corruption.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2020
This vulnerability represents a time-of-check to time-of-use flaw that exists in the Android operating system's handling of SSD image decryption processes on specific Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets. The vulnerability affects devices manufactured with Snapdragon MDM9635M, MDM9640, MDM9645, MSM8909W, and various SD series processors including 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 820, and SD 820A chipsets. The flaw occurs during the decryption process of SSD images, where the system performs a check on the image state and then uses the same image without revalidating its integrity between the check and use phases.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from a classic race condition where the system's security checks occur before the actual processing, creating a window where an attacker could manipulate the SSD image between the verification and execution phases. This TOCTOU condition allows for memory corruption that can potentially lead to privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution within the system's security boundaries. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects automotive and mobile platforms where secure boot and data integrity are paramount. According to CWE standards, this maps to CWE-367 which specifically addresses Time-of-Check to Time-of-Use (TOCTOU) vulnerabilities that can lead to security flaws in system operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption as it creates potential entry points for attackers to compromise the integrity of the device's storage system. In automotive environments where Snapdragon chipsets are commonly deployed, this vulnerability could potentially allow unauthorized access to vehicle systems or data storage mechanisms. Mobile devices utilizing these chipsets could experience complete system compromise, allowing attackers to bypass security measures and access sensitive user data. The vulnerability's scope is significant given the widespread adoption of these Snapdragon processors across multiple device categories and manufacturers.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying the security patches released by Qualcomm and device manufacturers, with the specific patch level mentioned as April 5, 2018, or later. Organizations should ensure that all devices utilizing the affected Snapdragon chipsets receive timely updates to address the TOCTOU condition in the SSD image decryption process. System administrators should also implement monitoring for suspicious activities related to storage operations and encryption processes. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the use of system-level vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to protected resources. Additionally, network security teams should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit potential lateral movement if such a vulnerability were to be exploited in a compromised environment.