CVE-2017-11074 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, there is an obsolete set/reset ssid hotlist API.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11074 resides within the Android operating system and related mobile platforms including Firefox OS for MSM and QRD Android implementations. This issue specifically affects devices utilizing the Linux kernel from Code Aurora Forum (CAF) and represents a critical security flaw in the wireless networking subsystem. The vulnerability stems from an obsolete Application Programming Interface (API) that manages the set/reset ssid hotlist functionality, which is a core component of wireless network management within mobile devices.
The technical flaw manifests in the improper handling of wireless network ssid hotlist operations through legacy API functions that have been deprecated but remain functional within the system. This obsolete API interface allows for manipulation of wireless network access point lists that are used to optimize connectivity and reduce power consumption by maintaining a list of preferred networks. The vulnerability occurs when the system fails to properly validate or sanitize inputs to these legacy functions, creating potential attack vectors for malicious actors to exploit. The flaw exists in the kernel-level implementation where network management operations are processed, making it particularly dangerous as it operates at a fundamental system level.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across multiple mobile platform implementations and affects all Android releases from CAF that utilize the Linux kernel. Attackers could potentially leverage this weakness to manipulate wireless network connectivity, potentially causing denial of service conditions or unauthorized network access. The vulnerability's presence in the core networking stack means that successful exploitation could disrupt normal device operation, allow for network reconnaissance, or enable attackers to bypass security measures that depend on proper ssid hotlist management. This affects both the device's ability to maintain secure connections and its overall wireless security posture.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-11074 require immediate patching of affected systems through official firmware updates provided by device manufacturers. Organizations should implement comprehensive vulnerability management programs that include regular security assessments of mobile device fleets and ensure all systems are updated with the latest security patches from CAF and respective vendors. The remediation process should involve thorough testing of updated firmware to prevent compatibility issues while ensuring the obsolete API functions are completely removed or properly secured. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing additional monitoring for unusual wireless network behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-691, which addresses inadequate protection of code or data from obsolete or deprecated features, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for executing malicious code through command-line interfaces. The persistence of deprecated APIs in production systems represents a common security oversight that creates attack surfaces for sophisticated adversaries. Security professionals should conduct regular audits of system components to identify and eliminate obsolete interfaces that could be exploited, particularly within kernel-level subsystems that control fundamental device operations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining secure coding practices and proper deprecation procedures to prevent legacy code from becoming security liabilities in mobile operating environments.