CVE-2017-11081 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 a potential buffer overflow vulnerability in hdd_parse_setrmcenable_command and hdd_parse_setrmcactionperiod_command APIs as buffers defined in this API can hold maximum 32 bytes but data more than 32 bytes can get copied.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2021
This vulnerability exists within the Android operating system and related platforms including Firefox OS for MSM and QRD Android, specifically affecting devices utilizing the Linux kernel from the Code Aurora Forum. The issue manifests in two distinct API functions: hdd_parse_setrmcenable_command and hdd_parse_setrmcactionperiod_command, which are part of the wireless networking subsystem. These functions handle commands related to Radio Management Commands (RMC) and contain critical buffer management flaws that could lead to system compromise. The root cause lies in insufficient input validation where buffers are allocated with a maximum capacity of 32 bytes, yet the code permits copying of data exceeding this limit without proper bounds checking. This fundamental flaw creates an exploitable condition where malicious input could overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The technical impact of this vulnerability can be analyzed through the lens of CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. Attackers could exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input packets or commands that exceed the 32-byte buffer limit, causing memory corruption that might result in privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the wireless management subsystem, which typically operates with elevated privileges, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to critical system functions. The operational impact extends beyond simple memory corruption, as this flaw could enable persistent backdoor access or denial of service conditions that would affect wireless connectivity and device functionality.
From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, where attackers could leverage the buffer overflow to execute arbitrary commands within the wireless management context. The affected platforms represent a significant portion of mobile devices utilizing Qualcomm chipsets, making this vulnerability particularly widespread across the mobile ecosystem. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual wireless management command patterns as part of their defensive strategy. Mitigation efforts should focus on immediate patch deployment for affected Android versions, along with implementing input validation controls that enforce strict buffer size limits. Additionally, security teams should monitor for potential exploitation attempts through network traffic analysis and system logs, as the vulnerability could be leveraged for advanced persistent threats targeting mobile device management systems.