CVE-2017-6264 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in the NVIDIA GPU driver (gm20b_clk_throt_set_cdev_state), where an out of bound memory read is used as a function pointer could lead to code execution in the kernel.This issue is rated as high because it could allow a local malicious application to execute arbitrary code within the context of a privileged process. Product: Android. Version: N/A. Android ID: A-34705430. References: N-CVE-2017-6264.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-6264 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within NVIDIA's GPU driver implementation for Android devices. This issue manifests in the gm20b_clk_throt_set_cdev_state function where an out-of-bounds memory read operation is improperly utilized as a function pointer, creating a potential code execution pathway within kernel space. The vulnerability specifically affects Android systems and was tracked under Android ID A-34705430, demonstrating the severity and impact of such flaws in mobile operating environments where GPU drivers interface directly with system-level processes.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the GPU driver's clock throttling mechanism. When the gm20b_clk_throt_set_cdev_state function processes incoming parameters, it fails to validate memory access boundaries before using retrieved values as function pointers. This oversight creates a scenario where malicious input could trigger an out-of-bounds memory read that subsequently gets interpreted as a valid function pointer, enabling arbitrary code execution. The flaw operates at the kernel level, meaning successful exploitation would grant the attacker elevated privileges equivalent to those of the GPU driver itself, which typically runs with high system privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-6264 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides a pathway for local attackers to gain complete control over device operations. Since the vulnerability exists within the GPU driver component that handles system-level clock management and thermal throttling, exploitation could lead to complete system compromise including data theft, persistent backdoor installation, and denial of service conditions. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which addresses insufficient input validation, and represents a classic example of how improper memory access controls can create severe security implications in system drivers. The attack vector requires local access to the device, making it particularly concerning for environments where physical access is possible or where applications with legitimate system access could be compromised.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate driver updates from NVIDIA and Android security patches. System administrators and device manufacturers should prioritize deployment of patched GPU driver versions that include proper bounds checking mechanisms. The solution involves implementing robust input validation within the gm20b_clk_throt_set_cdev_state function to prevent out-of-bounds memory access conditions. Additionally, kernel-level protections such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and control flow integrity measures should be implemented to further reduce exploitability. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices in kernel drivers and aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and kernel exploitation. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime monitoring for suspicious memory access patterns and function pointer usage to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the necessity of comprehensive security testing for system-level components, particularly those handling real-time system operations and hardware interfaces.