CVE-2017-0561 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in the Broadcom Wi-Fi firmware could enable a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the Wi-Fi SoC. This issue is rated as Critical due to the possibility of remote code execution in the context of the Wi-Fi SoC. Product: Android. Versions: Kernel-3.10, Kernel-3.18. Android ID: A-34199105. References: B-RB#110814.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2024
This vulnerability exists within the Broadcom Wi-Fi firmware implementation on Android devices, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that operates at the system level within the Wi-Fi SoC context. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and memory handling mechanisms within the wireless firmware components, allowing an attacker to craft malicious network packets that can be processed by the Wi-Fi chip without proper sanitization. The vulnerability affects Android devices running kernel versions 3.10 and 3.18, which were widely deployed across numerous smartphone and tablet models from various manufacturers including google samsung and motorola. This represents a fundamental flaw in the hardware abstraction layer where the firmware fails to properly validate packet structures before executing processing routines, creating an exploitable condition that can be triggered through network traffic without requiring physical access or user interaction. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it operates at the kernel level within the Wi-Fi subsystem, making it possible for remote attackers to gain complete control over the device's wireless communication capabilities and potentially escalate privileges to system level access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through crafted wireless frames that manipulate the firmware's memory management routines, specifically targeting buffer overflow conditions in the Wi-Fi driver's packet processing code. This flaw aligns with CWE-121 which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122 which addresses stack-based buffer overflow scenarios that can occur in embedded systems. The vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary code within the Wi-Fi SoC context, which can be leveraged to gain persistent access to the device and potentially escalate privileges to full system control. The attack requires only network-based delivery without user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through standard wireless communication channels such as public Wi-Fi networks or even through compromised access points. The impact is severe because the Wi-Fi SoC typically operates with elevated privileges and has direct access to hardware resources, allowing attackers to manipulate network communications, extract sensitive data, or install persistent backdoors on affected devices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete device compromise and potential data exfiltration capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to intercept and modify wireless communications, potentially accessing sensitive information transmitted over wireless networks including personal data financial information and corporate communications. The vulnerability's exploitation can also enable attackers to establish persistent access points within the device's network stack, allowing for ongoing surveillance and control without detection. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which describes execution through command and scripting interpreters, and T1041 which addresses data compression and encryption techniques used in malicious payloads. The affected devices remain vulnerable until patched, creating a persistent threat vector that can be exploited by threat actors without requiring physical access or specialized equipment. Organizations and individuals using affected Android devices face significant risk as the vulnerability can be exploited through various network-based attack vectors including man-in-the-middle attacks, rogue access point exploitation, and even through compromised network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch deployment through official Android security updates and manufacturer firmware updates, as the flaw cannot be effectively addressed through network configuration changes alone. The recommended approach involves implementing proper input validation and memory management practices within the Wi-Fi firmware code, including bounds checking and proper buffer allocation routines that prevent the exploitation conditions described in CWE-121 and CWE-122. Network administrators should consider implementing additional monitoring for anomalous wireless traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, while also ensuring that devices are regularly updated with the latest security patches. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure firmware development practices and proper security testing of embedded components, particularly in mobile device environments where hardware and software integration is critical for device functionality. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and wireless monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts, while maintaining awareness of the specific kernel versions and device models affected by this vulnerability to ensure comprehensive remediation efforts across all impacted systems.