CVE-2016-10442 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Android before 2018-04-05 or earlier security patch level on Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile MDM9640, SDM630, MSM8976, MSM8937, SDM845, MSM8976, and MSM8952, when running module or kernel code with improper access control allowing writing to arbitrary regions of memory, the user may utilize this vector to alter module executable code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2020
This vulnerability exists within Qualcomm Snapdragon mobile chipsets including the MDM9640, SDM630, MSM8976, MSM8937, SDM845, and MSM8952 processors found in Android devices released before the 2018-04-05 security patch level. The flaw represents a critical access control weakness that allows malicious actors to manipulate kernel or module code execution by writing to arbitrary memory regions. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-284 Access Control and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers Local Privilege Escalation through kernel exploits. The issue stems from insufficient validation mechanisms that permit unauthorized memory modifications, effectively creating a pathway for code injection attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper access control mechanisms within the kernel space of these Qualcomm processors. When executing module or kernel code, the system fails to properly validate memory write operations, allowing user-mode processes to potentially overwrite executable code sections. This weakness specifically affects the memory management unit and kernel virtual memory management subsystems, where legitimate kernel code can be modified without proper authorization. The vulnerability creates a persistent backdoor that can be exploited to modify critical system components, effectively enabling attackers to maintain long-term access to the device.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, representing a critical threat to device security and user privacy. Attackers can leverage this vector to modify core system modules, potentially gaining root access and executing arbitrary code with kernel privileges. This enables complete device compromise, allowing for persistent surveillance, data exfiltration, and system manipulation. The vulnerability affects millions of devices globally, as these Qualcomm chipsets were widely deployed across various smartphone manufacturers. The exploitation chain typically involves crafting malicious payloads that can be executed in user mode but leverage the improper access control to escalate privileges and modify kernel code, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where device security is paramount.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of affected devices through the 2018-04-05 security update, which addresses the access control flaws in the kernel memory management subsystem. Organizations should implement comprehensive device monitoring to detect unauthorized code modifications and establish secure boot processes that validate kernel integrity. System administrators should disable unnecessary kernel modules and implement strict access controls for memory operations. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and regular security audits for embedded systems. Additionally, network security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise related to kernel code modifications and implement endpoint detection and response solutions to identify potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper access control implementation in kernel space and the need for robust memory protection mechanisms in mobile operating systems.