CVE-2017-18129 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Android before security patch level 2018-04-05 on Qualcomm Snapdragon Automobile and Snapdragon Mobile MDM9206, MDM9607, SD 845, MSM8996, MSM8998, it is possible for IPA (internet protocol accelerator) channels owned by one security domain to be controlled from other domains.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/24/2020
This vulnerability exists within the Qualcomm Snapdragon automotive and mobile platforms, specifically affecting Android systems prior to the 2018-04-05 security patch level. The issue resides in the Internet Protocol Accelerator (IPA) functionality which is designed to optimize network traffic processing within the mobile platform. The IPA component operates across multiple security domains that are supposed to maintain strict isolation between different security contexts, but this vulnerability allows for cross-domain control of IPA channels. The flaw represents a critical breakdown in the security architecture that governs how network processing resources are allocated and controlled within these mobile platforms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate domain isolation mechanisms within the IPA subsystem. When IPA channels are established within a specific security domain, the system should prevent other security domains from accessing or controlling these channels. However, the vulnerability allows unauthorized domains to manipulate IPA channels that should be exclusively controlled by their designated security domain. This cross-domain control capability enables an attacker operating within one security context to potentially interfere with network operations, data flow, and communication patterns managed by other security domains. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects multiple Qualcomm platforms including the MDM9206, MDM9607, SD 845, MSM8996, and MSM8998 chipsets, indicating a widespread architectural flaw.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it compromises the fundamental network security model of these automotive and mobile platforms. Attackers could potentially manipulate network traffic flows, redirect data between security domains, or disrupt communication channels that are critical for vehicle safety systems or mobile device functionality. This cross-domain control capability could enable sophisticated attacks where malicious actors in one security context could interfere with legitimate network operations in another domain, potentially leading to data integrity compromises or denial of service conditions. The vulnerability directly impacts the security isolation that is essential for maintaining secure operation of automotive infotainment systems and mobile devices that rely on Qualcomm's platform architecture.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate application of the security patch released on 2018-04-05, which addresses the IPA domain isolation mechanisms. Organizations should also implement network monitoring to detect anomalous traffic patterns that might indicate unauthorized cross-domain channel manipulation. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) and represents a significant weakness in the principle of least privilege enforcement within the IPA subsystem. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability maps to multiple ATT&CK techniques including privilege escalation and lateral movement, as attackers could leverage the cross-domain control to expand their access within the system. Additionally, the flaw demonstrates poor adherence to security domain separation principles that are fundamental to secure system design, making it a critical target for both defensive measures and security architecture reviews.