CVE-2017-11035 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, possible buffer overflow or information leak in the functions "sme_set_ft_ies" and "csr_roam_issue_ft_preauth_req" due to incorrect initialization of WEXT callbacks and lack of the checks for buffer size.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11035 represents a critical security flaw affecting multiple Android-based platforms including MSM variants, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android systems. This issue stems from improper buffer management within the Linux kernel implementation used by these mobile operating systems. The vulnerability manifests in two primary functions: "sme_set_ft_ies" and "csr_roam_issue_ft_preauth_req" which are integral components of the wireless networking stack responsible for handling fast roaming operations and IEEE 802.11r mobility features.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the incorrect initialization of Wireless Extensions (WEXT) callbacks combined with insufficient buffer size validation checks. When these functions process incoming wireless network parameters, they fail to properly validate the length of data structures being handled, creating opportunities for either buffer overflow conditions or information disclosure vulnerabilities. This improper handling occurs at the kernel level where memory boundaries are not adequately enforced, allowing malicious actors to potentially exploit this weakness through crafted wireless network data packets.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11035 extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it affects the fundamental integrity of wireless communication protocols on affected devices. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code within the kernel space, potentially gaining full control over affected mobile devices. Additionally, the information leak component could expose sensitive kernel memory contents to unauthorized parties, potentially revealing system configuration details, cryptographic keys, or other confidential information. This vulnerability is particularly concerning given that it affects multiple Qualcomm-based platforms and Android versions, creating a widespread attack surface across numerous mobile devices.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper buffer size validation mechanisms and ensuring correct initialization of WEXT callback handlers. System administrators and device manufacturers should prioritize applying security patches provided by the respective vendors, particularly those addressing the Linux kernel components involved in wireless networking operations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and may also relate to CWE-20, representing input validation issues. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability could be leveraged for privilege escalation and persistence within mobile environments, making it a significant concern for mobile device security posture management and enterprise security controls.