CVE-2017-15830 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, improper ch_list array index initialization in function sme_set_plm_request() causes potential buffer overflow.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-15830 represents a critical buffer overflow condition affecting multiple Android variants including MSM, Firefox OS, and QRD Android platforms. This flaw exists within the Linux kernel components utilized by these operating systems, specifically in the sme_set_plm_request() function where the ch_list array index initialization fails to properly validate or initialize array boundaries. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices that allow for potential exploitation through malformed input data. The vulnerability affects all Android releases from CAF (Code Aurora Forum) that utilize the Linux kernel, creating a widespread impact across numerous device implementations and manufacturers. This particular flaw demonstrates a fundamental weakness in kernel-level memory handling that could be leveraged by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code or cause system instability.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper initialization of the ch_list array index within the sme_set_plm_request() function, which is part of the wireless communication subsystem responsible for managing power line monitoring requests. When the function processes incoming requests without proper bounds checking on array indices, it creates a condition where memory can be overwritten beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. This type of flaw falls under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and specifically relates to improper initialization of buffer indices that can lead to memory corruption. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it occurs in kernel space where successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to gain elevated privileges and execute malicious code with kernel-level access.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-15830 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enable full system compromise and persistent backdoor access. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by crafting specially formatted power line monitoring requests that would trigger the buffer overflow condition during normal device operation. Once exploited, the vulnerability could allow for privilege escalation, system state manipulation, and potentially complete device takeover. The attack surface is significant given that the affected platforms include multiple Android variants and are deployed across numerous device types including smartphones, tablets, and IoT devices. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation, and T1059, covering command and scripting interpreters, as exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands with elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected kernel versions and implementation of proper input validation measures within the sme_set_plm_request() function. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected Android platforms to versions containing the patched kernel code, which typically includes proper array bounds checking and index initialization. Additional defensive measures include implementing kernel module hardening techniques such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and kernel address space protection. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and thorough code review processes, particularly for kernel-level functions handling external input. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar buffer overflow conditions in other kernel components. System administrators should also monitor for suspicious network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts and maintain comprehensive incident response procedures for potential compromise scenarios.