CVE-2017-0510 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the kernel FIQ debugger 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-3.10. Android ID: A-32402555.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0510 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the Android kernel's Fast Interrupt Request (FIQ) debugger implementation. This weakness exists in the kernel version 3.10 and affects all Android devices running this kernel revision, making it a widespread concern across numerous mobile platforms. The FIQ debugger is designed to handle high-priority interrupt processing within the kernel, but the implementation contains a flaw that allows local malicious applications to exploit kernel execution contexts. The vulnerability's classification as critical stems from its potential to enable complete system compromise through kernel-level code execution, which would allow attackers to bypass all standard security boundaries and execute arbitrary code with the highest possible privileges.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the improper handling of FIQ debugger operations within the kernel space. When a malicious application attempts to interact with the FIQ debugger interface, the kernel fails to properly validate or sanitize input parameters, creating a pathway for privilege escalation. This flaw specifically affects how the kernel processes interrupt requests and debugger commands, allowing a local attacker to manipulate kernel memory structures and execute code with kernel-level permissions. The vulnerability's nature aligns with CWE-248, which describes "Uncaught Exception" in kernel contexts, and represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege within kernel space operations. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain root access to the device, effectively bypassing all Android security mechanisms including SELinux policies, sandboxing, and application permission controls.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0510 extends far beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over the device's kernel execution environment. Once exploited, the vulnerability enables persistent access to the device, allowing attackers to modify system files, install malicious applications, monitor user activities, and potentially extract sensitive data from the device. The requirement for full system reflash to remediate this issue indicates the severity of the compromise, as attackers can establish persistent backdoors that survive normal device restarts. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation," and represents a prime example of how kernel-level vulnerabilities can be leveraged to achieve complete system compromise. The long-term implications include potential data breaches, device tracking, and the ability to use compromised devices as entry points for further attacks within network environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate kernel updates and patches from device manufacturers, as the flaw exists at the core operating system level. Organizations should implement comprehensive device management policies that enforce timely security updates and monitor for signs of exploitation attempts. The recommended approach includes applying the latest kernel patches that address the FIQ debugger implementation issues and ensuring that all devices receive security updates within 48 hours of patch availability. Additionally, security teams should implement monitoring solutions that detect anomalous kernel-level activities and unauthorized code execution patterns. Device manufacturers must prioritize the rapid deployment of security patches through their update mechanisms, as this vulnerability's exploitation can occur without user interaction and provides attackers with permanent access to compromised devices. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of kernel code review processes and the need for enhanced security testing of interrupt handling mechanisms within operating system kernels.