CVE-2017-13255 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In process_service_attr_req of sdp_server.c, there is an out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to remote code execution with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Product: Android. Versions: 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0, 8.1. Android ID: A-68776054.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/08/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-13255 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the Bluetooth service discovery protocol (SDP) implementation of Android systems. This issue exists in the process_service_attr_req function located in the sdp_server.c source file, which handles Bluetooth service attribute requests. The flaw stems from the absence of proper bounds checking when processing incoming SDP requests, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted data can cause memory corruption beyond intended buffer boundaries. The vulnerability affects multiple Android versions including 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0, and 8.1, indicating a widespread impact across the Android ecosystem. This particular flaw is classified under CWE-787 as an out-of-bounds write condition, which directly aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation could enable arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can trigger the flaw without requiring physical access or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where Bluetooth is frequently utilized for device communication.
The technical nature of this vulnerability allows for remote code execution with no additional privileges required, which significantly amplifies its threat level. When a malicious Bluetooth device connects and sends specially crafted SDP attribute requests, the flawed implementation fails to validate the size of incoming data against allocated buffer space. This oversight enables attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting critical program structures or injecting malicious code into the Bluetooth service process. The affected Android components operate with elevated privileges due to their system-level nature, meaning successful exploitation could provide attackers with full control over the device's Bluetooth functionality and potentially broader system access. The absence of user interaction requirements makes this vulnerability particularly concerning for mobile environments where devices frequently connect to unknown Bluetooth peripherals, creating numerous attack vectors through public Wi-Fi networks, IoT devices, or malicious Bluetooth beacons.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-13255 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Given that Bluetooth services are integral to Android's connectivity infrastructure, exploitation could allow attackers to intercept communications, manipulate device behavior, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's presence in core system services means that successful exploitation could affect device stability, data integrity, and user privacy across all Bluetooth-dependent applications. Organizations and users must consider the broader implications of this vulnerability within their mobile security posture, particularly in enterprise environments where Bluetooth connectivity is prevalent. The Android ID A-68776054 indicates this vulnerability was recognized by Google's security team and addressed through their regular security updates, though the timeframe for patch deployment varies across different device manufacturers and update channels. This vulnerability exemplifies the critical importance of proper input validation in system-level services, as demonstrated by the ATT&CK framework's emphasis on preventing memory corruption vulnerabilities that can lead to privilege escalation and remote code execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-13255 primarily focus on applying official security patches released by Google and device manufacturers. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of Android security updates that address this specific vulnerability, as the window for exploitation remains open until patches are applied. Network administrators should implement Bluetooth access controls and monitor for unusual Bluetooth activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. Device users should ensure their Android systems remain up-to-date with the latest security patches, particularly those released in the second half of 2017. Additional defensive measures include disabling unnecessary Bluetooth functionality when not in use, implementing Bluetooth device whitelisting policies, and conducting regular security assessments of mobile device configurations. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of input validation and bounds checking in system-level code, as highlighted by the CWE classification and the ATT&CK framework's recommendations for preventing memory corruption vulnerabilities. Security teams should also consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious Bluetooth traffic patterns associated with exploitation attempts.