CVE-2017-15833 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, untrusted pointer dereference in update_userspace_power() function in power leads to information exposure.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-15833 represents a critical security flaw affecting multiple Android-based platforms including MSM variants, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android implementations that utilize the Linux kernel. This issue stems from an untrusted pointer dereference within the update_userspace_power() function located in the power management subsystem, creating a pathway for unauthorized information disclosure. The vulnerability affects all Android releases from the Code Aurora Forum (CAF) that incorporate the Linux kernel, indicating a widespread impact across various device manufacturers and hardware configurations.
The technical nature of this vulnerability falls under CWE-476 which specifically addresses NULL pointer dereference conditions in software systems. When the update_userspace_power() function processes untrusted input or pointer values, it fails to properly validate the pointer references before attempting to dereference them. This flaw allows malicious actors to manipulate the power management subsystem in ways that could expose sensitive information stored in memory locations that should remain protected. The function's failure to validate pointer integrity creates a condition where arbitrary memory locations could be accessed, potentially revealing kernel memory contents, configuration details, or other confidential data.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to device security and user privacy. The information exposure could potentially include sensitive kernel data structures, memory addresses, or other confidential information that might aid in developing more sophisticated attacks. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain insights into the device's internal memory layout, which could subsequently be used to exploit additional vulnerabilities or bypass security mechanisms. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure as the compromised power management functionality could potentially be used to disrupt normal device operations or create additional attack vectors.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to have access to the device and be able to execute code within the context of the power management subsystem. This typically involves either gaining local privileges or finding another way to trigger the vulnerable code path. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under privilege escalation and information gathering tactics, as it provides a means to extract confidential information from the system. Organizations should consider implementing comprehensive security monitoring to detect anomalous behavior in power management functions that could indicate exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of affected systems through updates provided by device manufacturers and the Code Aurora Forum. System administrators should also implement memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and kernel address space layout randomization to make exploitation more difficult. Additionally, monitoring systems should be enhanced to detect unusual power management activities that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of thorough input validation in kernel-level functions and demonstrates how seemingly minor flaws in system management components can have significant security implications. Regular security assessments of kernel modules and power management subsystems should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors.