CVE-2017-11018 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, array access out of bounds may occur in the camera driver in the kernel
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11018 represents a critical out-of-bounds memory access flaw within the camera driver component of Android-based systems that utilize the Linux kernel. This issue affects multiple device platforms including android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android, with all Android releases from CAF (Code Aurora Forum) being potentially impacted. The vulnerability manifests specifically within kernel-level camera driver code where improper bounds checking allows for array access violations that could be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical flaw stems from insufficient input validation and boundary checking mechanisms within the kernel-level camera driver implementation. When processing camera-related data structures, the driver fails to properly validate array indices before accessing memory locations, creating opportunities for buffer overflow conditions. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-129 category of "Improper Validation of Array Index" and represents a classic example of unchecked array access that can lead to memory corruption. The vulnerability occurs at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it operates with elevated privileges and can potentially compromise the entire system integrity.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enable privilege escalation and system compromise. An attacker could exploit this flaw by crafting malicious camera operations that trigger the out-of-bounds access, potentially allowing execution of arbitrary code within kernel space. This represents a significant security risk as kernel-level exploits can bypass standard user-space protections and provide attackers with complete system control. The vulnerability affects devices running various Android versions from CAF, making it widespread across multiple device manufacturers and models that rely on these kernel components.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves exploitation of legitimate credentials and system access. The out-of-bounds condition could be leveraged to gain elevated privileges through kernel exploitation, potentially allowing attackers to install malicious software, modify system files, or establish persistent backdoors. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that camera drivers are frequently accessed components in mobile devices, and the vulnerability can be triggered through normal camera functionality usage. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of their broader security posture assessment, particularly in environments where mobile device security is critical.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of affected systems through official vendor updates, implementation of kernel module access controls, and monitoring for unusual camera driver behavior. System administrators should also consider implementing network-level controls to restrict camera access where possible, and conduct thorough security assessments to identify systems running vulnerable kernel versions. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of rigorous code review processes for kernel-level components and highlights the need for comprehensive testing of memory access operations in embedded systems. Regular security updates and vulnerability assessments remain critical defensive measures against such kernel-level exploits that can fundamentally compromise system security.