CVE-2017-0338 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the NVIDIA GPU driver could enable a local malicious application to execute arbitrary code within the context of the kernel. This issue is rated as Critical due to the possibility of a local permanent device compromise, which may require reflashing the operating system to repair the device. Product: Android. Versions: Kernel-3.18. Android ID: A-33057977. References: N-CVE-2017-0338.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/13/2025
This critical elevation of privilege vulnerability exists within the NVIDIA GPU driver component of Android systems running kernel version 3.18. The flaw allows a locally malicious application to escalate its privileges and execute arbitrary code with kernel-level permissions, effectively bypassing the operating system's security boundaries. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and memory management within the GPU driver's kernel modules, creating a pathway for privilege escalation that can result in complete system compromise. The Android ID A-33057977 identifies this specific issue within the Android security framework, while the reference to N-CVE-2017-0338 links it to the broader NVIDIA security advisory ecosystem.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through kernel memory corruption or privilege escalation mechanisms that are typically protected by the operating system's security model. Attackers can leverage this flaw by crafting malicious applications that interact with the GPU driver through exposed interfaces, potentially manipulating kernel memory structures or exploiting race conditions in driver execution. The vulnerability's classification as critical reflects the severe implications of successful exploitation, as it allows attackers to gain root-level access to the device's kernel space. This means that once exploited, the malicious application can perform actions that are normally restricted to the operating system itself, including modifying system files, installing persistent backdoors, or disabling security mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it represents a fundamental breach in the device's security architecture. A successful attack could result in permanent device compromise, where the malicious code operates at the kernel level with unrestricted access to all system resources. The requirement for potential OS reflash to repair the device indicates that the vulnerability may allow attackers to install persistent malware that survives normal system restarts, making it particularly dangerous for mobile devices where users may not have immediate access to recovery mechanisms. This type of vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-264, which covers permissions, privileges, and access control issues in software systems, and represents a classic example of how driver-level vulnerabilities can create pathways for complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying the latest security patches provided by NVIDIA and Google, which typically include kernel updates and driver modifications that address the specific privilege escalation vectors. Organizations should implement strict application vetting processes to prevent installation of untrusted applications that could exploit this vulnerability, while also maintaining regular security updates for all Android components. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the T1068 adversary tactic for 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation'. System administrators should also consider implementing runtime protections and monitoring mechanisms that can detect anomalous kernel-level behavior indicative of exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability's nature makes traditional endpoint protection solutions insufficient for prevention alone.