CVE-2017-18276 in Snapdragon Mobile
Summary
by MITRE
Secure camera logic allows display/secure camera controllers to access HLOS memory during secure display or camera session in Snapdragon Mobile, Snapdragon Wear in MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9650, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 835, SD 845, SD 850
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/12/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-18276 represents a critical security flaw in Qualcomm Snapdragon mobile platform implementations that affects secure camera logic and memory access controls. This issue specifically impacts devices utilizing Snapdragon Mobile, Snapdragon Wear, and various MDM (Mobile Data Modem) chipsets including the MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9650, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 835, SD 845, and SD 850 platforms. The flaw resides in the improper handling of memory access permissions during secure display or camera sessions, creating a potential pathway for unauthorized data exposure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient isolation mechanisms between the secure and non-secure execution environments within Qualcomm's hardware security architecture. During secure camera sessions or secure display operations, the system fails to properly enforce memory access restrictions, allowing display controllers and secure camera controllers to access Hypervisor Level Operating System (HLOS) memory regions that should remain protected. This represents a breakdown in the fundamental security model designed to isolate sensitive operations from potentially malicious or compromised components. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-284 Access Control, specifically addressing improper access control mechanisms in hardware security domains.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, potentially enabling attackers to access sensitive information stored in HLOS memory during secure operations. This includes but is not limited to authentication credentials, cryptographic keys, personal data, and other confidential information that should remain protected during secure camera or display sessions. The flaw affects devices where secure camera functionality is utilized, which encompasses a broad range of mobile devices including smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to secure processing environments and potentially escalate privileges within the system.
From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059 Execution and T1068 Privilege Escalation tactics. The flaw enables attackers to move laterally within the system by accessing memory that should be restricted, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects devices that support secure camera functionality, which includes modern smartphones and tablets that utilize hardware-based security features. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of their comprehensive threat modeling exercises, particularly in environments where secure camera operations are frequently utilized.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-18276 require immediate attention from device manufacturers and system administrators. Qualcomm has released patches and firmware updates to address this vulnerability, which should be deployed across affected platforms immediately. The recommended approach includes implementing proper memory access controls that enforce strict isolation between secure and non-secure execution environments during camera and display operations. System administrators should also consider implementing additional monitoring mechanisms to detect unauthorized access attempts to secure memory regions. Device manufacturers should ensure that their security update processes are robust and that users are promptly notified of available patches. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining secure hardware design practices and proper memory management in mobile platforms.