CVE-2017-14890 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Qualcomm Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android with all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel before security patch level 2018-04-05, in the processing of an SWBA event, the vdev_map value is not properly validated leading to a potential buffer overwrite in function wma_send_bcn_buf_ll().
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2020
This vulnerability exists in Qualcomm's Android and Firefox OS implementations running on MSM (Mobile Station Modem) platforms, specifically affecting all Android releases from CAF (Qualcomm Android Framework) that utilize the Linux kernel before the security patch level of April 5, 2018. The flaw occurs during the handling of SWBA (Send Beacon Buffer Acknowledgment) events within the wireless networking subsystem, representing a critical buffer overflow condition that could enable remote code execution. The vulnerability stems from improper validation of the vdev_map value during the processing of beacon buffer events, creating a potential for arbitrary code execution through carefully crafted network packets.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the wma_send_bcn_buf_ll() function which processes beacon buffer information without adequate bounds checking on the vdev_map parameter. This parameter represents a virtual device mapping value that should be validated against expected ranges and constraints before being used to index into buffer structures. When the vdev_map value exceeds the legitimate buffer boundaries, the function attempts to write data beyond the allocated memory space, resulting in a classic buffer overflow condition. The vulnerability manifests as an out-of-bounds write operation that can corrupt adjacent memory locations, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite critical function pointers, return addresses, or other control data structures within the wireless driver's memory space.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant security implications as it could be exploited by remote attackers within the wireless network range to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. The attack vector requires the ability to inject malicious SWBA events through the wireless interface, which could be accomplished through rogue access points or network injection techniques. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation as the wireless driver operates with elevated privileges, potentially allowing attackers to gain full system control, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. This vulnerability particularly affects mobile devices running Qualcomm's proprietary wireless implementations, making it a significant concern for enterprise and consumer mobile security.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-787, which addresses out-of-bounds write operations. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as exploitation could lead to system-level compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning for mobile environments where wireless connectivity is essential and where users may unknowingly connect to compromised networks. Mitigation strategies include applying the relevant security patches released by Qualcomm and Android vendors, implementing network monitoring to detect anomalous SWBA event patterns, and potentially disabling wireless beacon functionality when not actively required. Additionally, organizations should consider network segmentation to limit the potential impact of wireless-based attacks and maintain comprehensive endpoint protection solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts.