CVE-2017-11006 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android, with all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, a Use After Free condition can occur during positioning.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11006 represents a critical use after free condition affecting multiple Android variants including MSM, Firefox OS, and QRD Android platforms. This flaw exists within the Linux kernel components utilized by these systems, specifically manifesting during positioning operations. The vulnerability stems from improper memory management practices where freed memory blocks are accessed after being deallocated, creating potential exploitation vectors for malicious actors seeking to compromise system integrity. The affected platforms leverage common kernel components from the Code Aurora Forum CAF ecosystem, making this issue prevalent across various mobile and embedded devices utilizing these software foundations.
The technical implementation of this use after free vulnerability occurs during positioning services execution, which typically involves GPS or cellular network location tracking functionality. When positioning operations are initiated, the kernel code allocates memory structures to handle location data processing and coordinate updates. However, the memory management routine fails to properly invalidate pointers or reset memory references after deallocation, allowing subsequent code paths to access already freed memory regions. This memory corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution or system crashes, depending on how the corrupted memory is subsequently accessed. The vulnerability specifically affects the kernel's positioning subsystem where memory allocation occurs for location services and network tracking mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11006 extends beyond simple system instability, potentially enabling remote code execution and privilege escalation attacks. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to device functionality, access sensitive location data, or manipulate positioning services to redirect or compromise navigation systems. The affected systems include smartphones, tablets, and embedded devices that rely on positioning services for various applications, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for mobile platforms. The use after free condition creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited repeatedly, as the corrupted memory state persists until the next system reboot or memory reset operation. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-416 which specifically addresses use after free conditions in memory management, and represents a significant risk for mobile security frameworks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-11006 should prioritize immediate patch deployment from device manufacturers and system vendors, as this vulnerability affects core kernel components that are fundamental to device operation. The recommended approach involves applying kernel updates that implement proper memory management practices, including pointer invalidation after deallocation and proper synchronization mechanisms during positioning service operations. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring to detect anomalous positioning behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, system administrators should disable unnecessary positioning services when not required, reducing attack surface exposure. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of kernel-level memory management security practices and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 for execution through kernel exploits, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security testing of core system components. The remediation process requires careful coordination between device manufacturers, operating system vendors, and security teams to ensure complete coverage across all affected platforms and versions.