CVE-2017-6263 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
NVIDIA driver contains a vulnerability where it is possible a use after free malfunction can occur due to improper usage of the list_for_each kernel macro which could enable unauthorized code execution and possibly lead to elevation of privileges. This issue is rated as high. Product: Android. Version: N/A. Android ID: A-38046353. References: N-CVE-2017-6263.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/12/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-6263 represents a critical use after free condition within NVIDIA's Android driver implementation that stems from improper handling of the list_for_each kernel macro. This flaw exists in the kernel-level graphics driver components that manage hardware acceleration for mobile devices running Android operating systems. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the driver processes certain graphics operations that involve linked list manipulation, creating opportunities for malicious code execution through memory corruption.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the incorrect application of the list_for_each macro within kernel space code, which leads to improper memory management during list traversal operations. When the driver processes graphics commands that involve list manipulation, the flawed implementation can result in a situation where memory allocated to list nodes is freed while still being referenced, creating a use after free condition. This memory corruption vulnerability allows attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, as demonstrated through the exploitation of the improper list management pattern that violates standard kernel security practices.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to Android devices utilizing NVIDIA graphics processors, particularly those running vulnerable driver versions. The high severity rating reflects the potential for privilege escalation, where an attacker could leverage this use after free condition to gain elevated system privileges and execute malicious code with kernel-level access. This capability enables full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor installation, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where devices often contain sensitive personal and corporate information.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use after free conditions in software implementations, and represents a classic example of improper memory management in kernel space code. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to privilege escalation techniques and kernel exploitation methods, potentially enabling adversaries to move laterally within affected systems and establish persistent access. The exploitation requires minimal user interaction and can be triggered through normal graphics processing operations, making it particularly stealthy and difficult to detect.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-6263 primarily involve updating to patched driver versions provided by NVIDIA and implementing proper kernel memory management practices. System administrators should prioritize patch deployment across all affected Android devices and monitor for potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper kernel macro usage and thorough code review processes for security-sensitive kernel components, particularly those involving memory management and list traversal operations. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime protections and monitoring systems to detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts.