CVE-2017-14876 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In msm_ispif_config_stereo() in Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android before 2017-06-21, the parameter params->entries[i].vfe_intf comes from userspace without any bounds check which could potentially result in a kernel out-of-bounds write.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/24/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14876 represents a critical kernel-level out-of-bounds write flaw affecting Android-based systems utilizing MSM (Mobile Station Modem) platforms. This issue manifests within the msm_ispif_config_stereo() function where input parameters from userspace are processed without adequate validation or bounds checking mechanisms. The specific parameter at risk is params->entries[i].vfe_intf which originates from untrusted userspace input, creating a potential pathway for malicious actors to manipulate kernel memory structures through crafted input sequences.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the kernel space processing pipeline. When the system processes stereo configuration parameters for image signal processing units, it fails to verify the bounds of array indices or validate the legitimacy of user-provided interface identifiers. This absence of proper bounds checking creates a scenario where an attacker can supply malicious data that causes the kernel to write beyond allocated memory boundaries, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system instability. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates within the kernel space context where such flaws can result in complete system compromise.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability affects multiple Android variants including MSM-based Android systems, Firefox OS for MSM platforms, and QRD Android releases prior to the 2017-06-21 security patch. The impact extends across various mobile device manufacturers who utilize Qualcomm's MSM chipsets, potentially affecting smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices that rely on these processing units for image and video processing capabilities. The exploitation of this flaw could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, potentially leading to full device compromise, data exfiltration, or persistent backdoor installation. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient input validation leading to out-of-bounds reads or writes, and represents a classic example of how user-supplied data can be leveraged to corrupt kernel memory structures.
The security implications of CVE-2017-14876 extend beyond immediate exploitation capabilities as it demonstrates a fundamental flaw in kernel input validation processes. Attackers could potentially leverage this vulnerability through various attack vectors including malicious applications, compromised web content, or even physical device manipulation scenarios. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework would likely map to privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting kernel-level access through memory corruption vulnerabilities. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patch deployment for affected Android versions, implementation of additional kernel memory protection mechanisms, and enhanced input validation routines that enforce strict bounds checking on all user-provided parameters. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime monitoring solutions to detect anomalous memory access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of rigorous input validation in kernel space operations and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of mobile platform components that handle user-supplied data.