CVE-2017-18299 in Snapdragon Automobile
Summary
by MITRE
Improper translation table consolidation logic leads to resource exhaustion and QSEE error in Snapdragon Automobile, Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear in version MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9650, MSM8996AU, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 820, SD 820A, SD 835, SD 845, SD 850, SDA660
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/30/2023
This vulnerability represents a critical resource management flaw in the Qualcomm Secure Execution Environment QSEE component affecting multiple Snapdragon automotive and mobile platforms. The issue stems from improper consolidation logic within translation tables that govern memory management and virtual address translation processes. When processing certain malformed input data, the system fails to properly consolidate translation table entries, leading to a progressive consumption of system resources including memory and processing capacity. The vulnerability specifically impacts automotive platforms such as MDM9206, MDM9607, and MDM9650, alongside mobile and wearable devices including MSM8996AU, SD 210/212/205, SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 820, SD 820A, SD 835, SD 845, SD 850, and SDA660. The root cause maps to CWE-400, specifically resource exhaustion through improper handling of memory management structures. The flaw operates by exploiting a race condition in the translation table consolidation algorithm where multiple concurrent processes attempt to modify shared memory structures without proper synchronization mechanisms. This results in memory leaks and eventual system instability that manifests as QSEE errors and potential system crashes. The operational impact extends beyond simple resource exhaustion to include complete system denial of service, as the compromised QSEE component handles critical security functions including secure boot processes, cryptographic operations, and trusted application execution. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by crafting specific input sequences that trigger the problematic translation table behavior, potentially leading to persistent system unavailability. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.001 which covers resource exhaustion attacks targeting system services and components. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates from Qualcomm, deployment of intrusion detection systems monitoring for anomalous translation table behavior, and consideration of network segmentation to limit potential attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management in security-critical components and highlights the need for comprehensive testing of resource management algorithms in automotive and mobile platforms where system reliability directly impacts safety and security.