CVE-2017-15825 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all android releases(Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) from CAF using the linux kernel, while processing a gpt update, an out of bounds memory access may potentially occur.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2023
This vulnerability exists within the linux kernel implementations used across various android platforms including MSM variants, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android systems. The issue manifests during the processing of gpt update operations which are critical for maintaining disk partition tables and system boot integrity. The flaw represents a classic out of bounds memory access condition that can potentially be exploited by malicious actors to disrupt system operations or execute unauthorized code. The vulnerability affects multiple device manufacturers who rely on code from the Code Aurora Forum CAF for their kernel implementations, creating widespread exposure across the mobile ecosystem.
The technical root cause stems from inadequate bounds checking within the gpt update handling code within the linux kernel subsystem. When processing guid partition table updates, the kernel fails to properly validate array indices or buffer boundaries before accessing memory locations. This allows an attacker to craft malicious gpt update data that triggers memory access beyond allocated boundaries. The vulnerability can be triggered through legitimate system operations or potentially through compromised update mechanisms, making it particularly concerning for mobile device security. According to CWE standards, this maps directly to CWE-129 which describes insufficient bounds checking, and CWE-787 which covers out of bounds read conditions. The memory corruption resulting from this flaw can lead to system crashes, data corruption, or potentially privilege escalation depending on the specific implementation details.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system instability as it affects the fundamental boot and partition management processes that are critical to device functionality. Mobile devices relying on affected kernel versions could experience complete system failures during partition updates, rendering devices inoperable until recovery procedures are performed. In a broader context, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which involves command and control through system modification, and T1068 which covers local privilege escalation. The vulnerability creates potential attack vectors for adversaries who might attempt to manipulate partition tables to gain persistent access or execute malicious code with kernel privileges. Security researchers have noted that such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in mobile environments where device recovery mechanisms may be limited and users may not be able to perform manual system repairs.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate kernel updates from manufacturers who have patched this vulnerability, as well as implementing runtime protections such as stack canaries and memory protection mechanisms. Device manufacturers should conduct thorough testing of partition update mechanisms to ensure proper bounds checking is enforced. System administrators should monitor for any unauthorized partition modifications and implement integrity checking mechanisms for critical system files. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of rigorous code review processes for kernel components and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of system boot processes. Organizations should also consider implementing network-based detection measures to identify potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific memory access flaw.