CVE-2017-0744 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the NVIDIA firmware processing code. Product: Android. Versions: Android kernel. Android ID: A-34112726. References: N-CVE-2017-0744.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/22/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0744 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the NVIDIA firmware processing code integrated into Android kernel implementations. This weakness specifically targets the handling of firmware components that are essential for proper device operation and security posture. The vulnerability resides in the kernel-level firmware processing mechanisms that manage NVIDIA graphics and multimedia components, creating a pathway for malicious actors to escalate their privileges from standard user contexts to system-level administrative access.
This technical flaw manifests through improper validation and processing of firmware data structures within the Android kernel's NVIDIA driver implementation. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization and memory management practices when handling firmware updates and initialization sequences. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious firmware payloads that, when processed by the affected kernel components, trigger unintended code execution with elevated privileges. The flaw essentially allows an unprivileged process to manipulate kernel memory structures or bypass security controls that should normally prevent such privilege escalation.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0744 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential complete system compromise and persistent backdoor access. Once exploited, adversaries can gain root-level access to affected Android devices, enabling them to modify system files, install malicious applications, access sensitive user data, and establish persistent footholds within the device ecosystem. This vulnerability affects all Android devices that utilize NVIDIA hardware components and kernel implementations, making it particularly concerning given the widespread deployment of NVIDIA chipsets in mobile devices and embedded systems. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to data breaches, device hijacking, and unauthorized surveillance capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0744 require immediate firmware and kernel updates from device manufacturers, as well as comprehensive security patches for affected Android versions. Organizations should implement robust firmware integrity checking mechanisms and maintain updated security configurations to prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-119 which addresses "Improper Access to Memory" and relates to ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation." Device administrators should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions to detect anomalous firmware processing activities and establish secure boot mechanisms that prevent unauthorized firmware modifications. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in embedded firmware processing components across all Android-based platforms.