CVE-2017-18147 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Qualcomm Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android with all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel before security patch level 2018-04-05, in MMCP, a downlink message is not being properly validated.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2020
This vulnerability resides within the Multimedia Messaging Protocol Controller (MMCP) component of Qualcomm's Android implementations across multiple platforms including MSM variants, Firefox OS, and QRD Android systems. The flaw manifests in the improper validation of downlink messages, creating a potential security risk that could be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability affects all Android releases from the Common Android Framework (CAF) that utilize the Linux kernel and remain unpatched before the security patch level of April 5, 2018. This represents a critical weakness in the communication protocols that handle multimedia messaging operations within mobile devices.
The technical flaw stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the MMCP subsystem, specifically when processing downlink messages that are received from external sources. This validation failure allows for malformed or maliciously crafted messages to bypass normal security checks and potentially execute unauthorized operations. The vulnerability can be categorized under CWE-20, which represents "Improper Input Validation," and more specifically aligns with CWE-772, "Missing Release of Resource after Effective Lifetime," as it involves improper handling of message processing resources. The root cause lies in the absence of proper boundary checks and sanitization procedures for incoming message data, enabling attackers to manipulate message contents and potentially trigger unintended behaviors within the system.
Operationally, this vulnerability creates significant risks for mobile device users and organizations relying on Qualcomm-based devices. Attackers could potentially exploit this weakness to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or gain unauthorized access to device resources through specially crafted downlink messages. The impact extends beyond individual device compromise to potential network-level attacks that could affect multiple devices within a networked environment. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell," and T1068, "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation," as it provides a potential entry point for privilege escalation attacks. The exploitation could occur through various attack vectors including SMS-based attacks, MMS message manipulation, or other communication protocols that utilize the vulnerable MMCP component.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch deployment to update devices to security patch level 2018-04-05 or later, ensuring all Qualcomm Android implementations receive the necessary security updates. Organizations should implement network monitoring to detect suspicious downlink message patterns and establish robust message validation procedures at the network level. Additionally, device administrators should consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can enforce security policies and monitor for potential exploitation attempts. The remediation process must include comprehensive testing of patched systems to ensure that the vulnerability is fully resolved without introducing new compatibility issues. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any related weaknesses in the communication stack that may have been overlooked during initial patch deployment.