CVE-2017-17765 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all Qualcomm products with Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, multiple values received from firmware are not properly validated in wma_get_ll_stats_ext_buf() and are used to allocate the sizes of buffers and may be vulnerable to integer overflow leading to buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2020
This vulnerability exists within Qualcomm products that utilize Android operating systems through the Linux kernel framework and represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in the wireless media access layer statistics handling component. The issue stems from inadequate input validation within the wma_get_ll_stats_ext_buf() function where multiple parameters received from firmware are processed without proper sanitization. This function is responsible for allocating memory buffers based on values provided by the firmware, creating a pathway for malicious input to manipulate buffer allocation sizes. The vulnerability specifically manifests when integer overflow occurs during the calculation of buffer sizes, allowing an attacker to specify oversized buffer dimensions that exceed the intended memory boundaries. This flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the kernel level within the Android framework, providing potential access to critical system resources and memory spaces that could be exploited for privilege escalation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with common software security weaknesses documented in CWE-190, which covers integer overflow and underflow conditions. When firmware parameters are passed to the buffer allocation routine, the system performs arithmetic operations on these values without proper bounds checking or overflow detection mechanisms. This creates an environment where an attacker can craft malicious firmware responses containing oversized size values that, when processed through the integer arithmetic operations, result in buffer overflow conditions. The vulnerability is classified as a memory corruption issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution, data corruption, or system instability. The attack surface is particularly broad as it affects all Qualcomm products utilizing Android releases from the Common Android Framework, making it a widespread concern across numerous mobile devices and embedded systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it creates opportunities for sophisticated attacks that align with tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1068, which covers exploit for privilege escalation. The kernel-level nature of the flaw means that successful exploitation could provide attackers with elevated privileges to access sensitive system components, modify critical files, or establish persistent backdoors within the device. Mobile device users face significant risks as this vulnerability could be exploited through compromised firmware updates, malicious network communications, or even through physical access to devices. The vulnerability's presence in the Linux kernel components of Qualcomm's Android implementations makes it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where mobile device management and security policies are critical. Attackers could potentially leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to corporate networks through mobile device breaches, especially in scenarios where devices are not properly secured or regularly updated.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require a multi-layered approach that combines immediate patch deployment with defensive measures. Qualcomm has released security patches addressing the integer overflow conditions in the affected kernel components, and system administrators should prioritize updating all affected devices to the latest security firmware versions. Additionally, implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous firmware communication patterns may help identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and bounds checking in kernel-level code, emphasizing the need for defensive programming practices that align with secure coding standards. Organizations should also consider implementing device hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary wireless interfaces, restricting firmware update sources, and maintaining strict access controls for device management functions. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning of mobile device fleets can help identify systems that may not have received the necessary security updates, ensuring comprehensive protection against this and similar kernel-level threats.