CVE-2017-18274 in Snapdragon Mobile
Summary
by MITRE
While iterating through the models contained in a fixed-size array in the actData structure, which also stores an incorrect number of models that is greater than the size of the array, a buffer overflow occurs in Snapdragon Automobile, Snapdragon Mobile, Snapdragon Wear in MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9650, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 617, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 820, SD 820A, SD 835
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/12/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-18274 represents a critical buffer overflow condition that exists within Qualcomm's Snapdragon automotive and mobile platform implementations. This flaw manifests in the actData structure where the system iterates through a fixed-size array while simultaneously storing an incorrect count of models that exceeds the array's actual capacity. The fundamental issue lies in the improper bounds checking mechanism that fails to validate the relationship between the reported model count and the physical array dimensions, creating a scenario where memory access extends beyond allocated boundaries. This vulnerability affects multiple Snapdragon chipsets including automotive variants like MDM9206, MDM9607, and MDM9650, alongside various mobile and wearable platforms such as SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 617, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 820, SD 820A, and SD 835, indicating a widespread impact across Qualcomm's product portfolio.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from a classic programming error that falls under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions. The flaw occurs during iterative processing of the actData structure where the system assumes the model count accurately reflects the array size without proper validation. When the iteration process encounters a model count that surpasses the array's physical limits, the subsequent memory writes extend beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially overwriting adjacent memory regions. This type of buffer overflow creates opportunities for arbitrary code execution and system compromise, as attackers can manipulate the overflow to redirect program execution flow or corrupt critical system data structures. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in automotive environments where Snapdragon platforms control critical vehicle functions and safety systems, as the buffer overflow could potentially be exploited to gain unauthorized access to vehicle control systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, creating significant security implications for both automotive and mobile device environments. In automotive applications, the compromised Snapdragon platforms could enable attackers to manipulate vehicle control systems through buffer overflow exploitation, potentially affecting engine performance, braking systems, or other critical safety mechanisms. The mobile and wearable device implications include potential privilege escalation, data theft, and unauthorized access to sensitive user information stored on devices utilizing affected chipsets. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as exploitation could enable attackers to execute malicious code within the device's operating environment. The widespread chipset compatibility means that millions of devices across multiple platforms could be potentially affected, creating a substantial attack surface for threat actors targeting Qualcomm-based systems in both consumer and industrial applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-18274 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from device manufacturers and Qualcomm's release of security patches addressing the buffer overflow condition. System administrators and device manufacturers must implement robust input validation mechanisms that enforce proper bounds checking on all array access operations, particularly those involving user-supplied or external data sources. The implementation of address space layout randomization and stack canaries can provide additional defense-in-depth measures against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any remaining instances of the flaw in deployed systems. Given the automotive implications, manufacturers should also implement secure boot mechanisms and runtime integrity checking to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability in vehicle systems, ensuring that only authenticated and validated firmware updates are applied to affected platforms.