CVE-2017-14893 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
While flashing meta image, a buffer over-read may potentially occur when the image size is smaller than the image header size or is smaller than the image header size + total image header entry in Android releases from CAF using the linux kernel (Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) before security patch level 2018-06-05.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14893 represents a critical buffer over-read condition that affects Android systems utilizing Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets and the Linux kernel. This flaw manifests specifically during the process of flashing meta images, which are essential components used in device firmware updates and system initialization. The vulnerability impacts Android releases from the Qualcomm Android Flashing (CAF) framework across multiple product lines including Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android. The issue occurs when the meta image being processed contains a size that falls below the expected header dimensions, creating a scenario where the system attempts to read beyond the allocated buffer boundaries.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and buffer management within the image flashing mechanism. When processing meta images, the system performs calculations based on header size and total header entry sizes without proper boundary checks. This allows an attacker to craft malicious meta images that, when processed, cause the system to read memory locations beyond the intended buffer limits. The buffer over-read can potentially expose sensitive system information, disrupt normal operation, or provide opportunities for privilege escalation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it occurs during the flashing process, which typically requires elevated privileges and represents a critical point in system initialization where security controls may be relaxed.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14893 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks. An attacker who can influence the flashing process could leverage this vulnerability to extract kernel memory contents, potentially discovering sensitive information such as cryptographic keys, system addresses, or other confidential data. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for exploitation during device provisioning or firmware updates, which are typically performed in trusted environments where attackers may have limited direct access but can influence the update process. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in scenarios where devices are updated in the field or when untrusted parties have access to the flashing infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of security patches released by Qualcomm and device manufacturers. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected devices to security patch level 2018-06-05 or later, as this represents the official fix for the buffer over-read condition. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict image validation procedures before flashing operations, employing memory safety checks during image processing, and monitoring for unusual flashing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can lead to memory corruption vulnerabilities. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability could be leveraged during the initial access phase through malicious firmware updates or during the privilege escalation phase when exploiting the buffer over-read to gain elevated system privileges.