CVE-2017-11066 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, while flashing ubi image an uninitialized memory could be accessed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11066 represents a critical memory safety issue affecting multiple Android variants including those based on Qualcomm Snapdragon platforms and Firefox OS implementations. This flaw manifests during the Universal Block Images (UBI) flashing process within the Linux kernel framework that underpins these mobile operating systems. The vulnerability stems from improper initialization of memory regions during the UBI image flashing procedure, creating potential pathways for unauthorized memory access that could be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-457, which addresses the use of uninitialized variables or memory locations. During UBI image flashing operations, the kernel fails to properly initialize certain memory buffers before they are processed or accessed, leading to potential information disclosure or system instability. This uninitialized memory access occurs in the kernel space where critical system operations are performed, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged to extract sensitive data from kernel memory regions or potentially manipulate system behavior through crafted UBI images.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11066 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to system resources and potentially escalate privileges within the kernel environment. Mobile devices running affected Android variants and Firefox OS implementations are vulnerable to attacks that could compromise device integrity, allowing adversaries to access confidential information stored in kernel memory or manipulate system operations. The vulnerability affects all Android releases from the Code Aurora Forum (CAF) that utilize the Linux kernel, indicating a widespread exposure across multiple device manufacturers and platform implementations.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability maps to several ATT&CK techniques including privilege escalation and defense evasion. An attacker could potentially craft malicious UBI images designed to trigger the uninitialized memory access, leading to information disclosure or system compromise. The exploitation requires access to the device's flashing mechanism, which typically involves bootloader or recovery mode operations, making it accessible in scenarios where physical access to the device is possible or through targeted attacks that can trigger the vulnerable code path.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-11066 should focus on implementing proper memory initialization procedures within the kernel's UBI subsystem and ensuring that all memory allocations are properly initialized before use. Device manufacturers should prioritize applying kernel patches that address the uninitialized memory access issue and implement proper input validation for UBI image processing. Additionally, security measures such as secure boot implementations and enhanced verification of UBI images can help prevent exploitation of this vulnerability. The fix typically involves modifying the kernel code to ensure that memory buffers are properly initialized before being processed during UBI flashing operations, which aligns with the principle of least privilege and secure coding practices recommended by industry security standards.