CVE-2017-18065 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 input validation for vent->vdev_id in wma_action_frame_filter_mac_event_handler(), which is received from firmware, leads to arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2023
This vulnerability resides within the Android operating system's kernel-based wireless management architecture, specifically affecting devices utilizing the Linux kernel from Code Aurora Forum. The flaw manifests in the wma_action_frame_filter_mac_event_handler() function where the vent->vdev_id parameter undergoes insufficient input validation. This parameter is received from firmware components and represents a device identifier used in wireless communication management. When improperly validated, the vulnerability creates a condition where maliciously crafted firmware data can manipulate the device identifier to execute arbitrary code within the kernel space.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from a classic buffer overflow or memory corruption flaw that occurs when the system fails to properly validate incoming data before processing it. The vent->vdev_id field serves as a critical parameter for identifying wireless device contexts, and when this identifier contains unexpected or malicious values, it can trigger unauthorized code execution. This represents a privilege escalation vulnerability that allows attackers to gain elevated privileges within the kernel environment, potentially enabling complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel level where the system's most critical security controls reside.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across multiple Android variants including MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android platforms. Attackers could exploit this weakness by crafting malicious firmware packets that manipulate the vdev_id parameter to bypass security checks and execute unauthorized code. This could result in persistent backdoor access, data exfiltration, or complete system takeover. The vulnerability affects all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, indicating a widespread exposure across various device manufacturers and model lines. Security researchers have classified this under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and it aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing robust input validation mechanisms within the wireless management subsystem, particularly around the vent->vdev_id parameter processing. Device manufacturers should deploy firmware updates that include proper bounds checking and parameter validation to prevent malicious data from being processed. Additionally, kernel-level security patches should be implemented to sanitize all incoming firmware data before it reaches the vulnerable function. Network monitoring systems should be configured to detect anomalous wireless communication patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime application protection measures and regular security assessments to identify potential exploitation vectors. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of validating all external inputs within kernel space and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of firmware components that interface with core operating system functions.