CVE-2017-14918 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, in the GPS location wireless interface, a Use After Free condition can occur.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14918 represents a critical use after free condition within the GPS location wireless interface of Android-based systems developed by Qualcomm. This flaw exists in the Linux kernel implementation across multiple Android releases including those from the Qualcomm Android Framework and Firefox OS for MSM platforms. The issue manifests when memory that has been freed is still being accessed or referenced by the system, creating a potential exploitation vector for malicious actors. The vulnerability specifically impacts devices utilizing Qualcomm MSM (Mobile Station Modem) hardware platforms, which are prevalent in numerous smartphone and tablet models from various manufacturers.
The technical nature of this vulnerability falls under the CWE-416 category of Use After Free, which is classified as a memory safety issue where a program continues to reference memory after it has been freed. This condition typically occurs in kernel-level code where memory management operations are performed without proper synchronization or validation mechanisms. In the context of GPS location services, this flaw likely occurs during the processing of location data packets or when managing the communication interface between the GPS hardware and the operating system. The memory corruption resulting from this use after free condition can lead to arbitrary code execution or system instability, potentially allowing attackers to gain elevated privileges or cause denial of service conditions.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14918 extends beyond simple system crashes or performance degradation, as it represents a potential pathway for privilege escalation attacks within the kernel space. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to execute malicious code with kernel-level privileges, potentially compromising the entire device security posture. This vulnerability particularly affects mobile devices where GPS functionality is frequently utilized, making it a prime target for exploitation in mobile threat landscapes. The widespread adoption of Qualcomm MSM platforms across the Android ecosystem means that numerous devices could be vulnerable, creating a significant attack surface for threat actors. The vulnerability's presence in the Linux kernel components used by both Android and Firefox OS platforms amplifies its impact, as it affects multiple operating system variants from the same hardware foundation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-14918 should prioritize immediate patch deployment from device manufacturers, as Qualcomm has released security updates addressing this specific use after free condition. System administrators and security teams should implement comprehensive monitoring for abnormal GPS service behavior or memory allocation patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, as exploitation could enable attackers to execute commands with elevated privileges. Organizations should also consider implementing network-based detection mechanisms to monitor for suspicious GPS data packets or communication patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. Device manufacturers should conduct thorough security testing of kernel components, particularly focusing on memory management routines and wireless interface handlers. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of kernel-level security reviews and proper memory management practices, aligning with industry standards for secure coding practices that emphasize the prevention of memory safety issues in system-level components.