CVE-2017-0438 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Qualcomm Wi-Fi driver could enable a local malicious application to execute arbitrary code within the context of the kernel. This issue is rated as High because it first requires compromising a privileged process. Product: Android. Versions: Kernel-3.10, Kernel-3.18. Android ID: A-32402604. References: QC-CR#1092497.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2022
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-0438 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the Qualcomm Wi-Fi driver component of Android operating systems. This issue affects kernel versions 3.10 and 3.18, making it particularly concerning given the widespread adoption of these kernel versions in mobile devices. The vulnerability exists in the wireless networking subsystem and specifically targets the driver responsible for managing Wi-Fi connectivity on Qualcomm-based devices. The flaw allows a local malicious application to escalate its privileges and execute arbitrary code with kernel-level permissions, effectively bypassing the normal security boundaries that protect the operating system's core functions.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and memory handling within the Qualcomm Wi-Fi driver implementation. When a malicious application attempts to exploit this weakness, it can manipulate the driver's behavior to gain unauthorized access to kernel memory spaces. This type of flaw typically arises from buffer overflows, use-after-free conditions, or improper privilege checks within the driver code. The vulnerability's classification as High severity indicates that while it requires an initial compromise of a privileged process, once achieved, it provides complete control over the device's kernel execution environment. This aligns with CWE-20, which addresses "Improper Input Validation" as a fundamental weakness in software security that can lead to privilege escalation attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it fundamentally compromises the security model of Android devices running affected kernel versions. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain root access to the device, potentially enabling them to install persistent malware, extract sensitive data, modify system files, or disable security features entirely. The attack vector requires local access and the ability to install a malicious application, but once the initial compromise occurs, the attacker can operate with complete system privileges. This vulnerability affects the core security architecture of Android devices, as it undermines the principle of least privilege that normally prevents applications from accessing kernel-level resources. The impact is particularly severe because it can be exploited through legitimate system processes that have elevated privileges, making detection more difficult.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0438 require a multi-layered approach combining immediate patching with operational security measures. Device manufacturers and carriers must prioritize the deployment of security updates that address the specific Wi-Fi driver vulnerability within the Qualcomm chipset. Organizations should implement application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized applications from running on affected devices, as this reduces the attack surface for exploitation. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining updated kernel components and driver firmware, as it highlights the risks associated with legacy kernel versions that may contain unpatched security flaws. Network security teams should monitor for potential exploitation attempts and consider implementing endpoint detection and response solutions that can identify suspicious kernel-level activities. This vulnerability also underscores the necessity of following the principle of defense in depth, where multiple security controls work together to protect against various attack vectors and reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation. The issue relates to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation," emphasizing how attackers can leverage system vulnerabilities to gain elevated privileges and access sensitive system resources.