CVE-2017-6287 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
NVIDIA libnvrm contains a possible out of bounds read due to a missing bounds check which could lead to local information disclosure. This issue is rated as moderate.Product: Android. Version: N/A. Android: A-64893264. Reference: N-CVE-2017-6287.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/12/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-6287 resides within NVIDIA's libnvrm library component, which serves as a critical driver interface for graphics processing units in Android devices. This issue represents a classic out-of-bounds read condition that occurs when the software fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits before accessing memory locations. The flaw specifically manifests in the absence of necessary bounds checking mechanisms that should prevent unauthorized memory access patterns. As a moderate severity vulnerability, it presents significant risks to system confidentiality and data integrity within the Android ecosystem where NVIDIA graphics hardware is prevalent. The vulnerability affects Android versions where this particular library component is deployed, with the specific Android identifier A-64893264 tracking the affected releases and patches.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the memory management routines of the libnvrm library. When applications or system processes interact with graphics processing capabilities through this library, they may pass parameters that exceed the expected buffer boundaries. Without proper bounds checking, the system attempts to read memory locations that may not belong to the intended data structure, potentially exposing sensitive information stored in adjacent memory regions. This type of flaw falls under the CWE-129 category of Improper Validation of Array Index, which is classified as a common weakness in software security practices. The out-of-bounds read operation can inadvertently disclose kernel memory contents, including potentially sensitive data such as cryptographic keys, user credentials, or system configuration details that should remain protected from unauthorized access.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-6287 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as local attackers with access to the device can exploit this vulnerability to gain insights into system memory structures and potentially identify additional attack vectors. Since this is a local information disclosure vulnerability, it requires physical access or execution privileges on the target device, making it less immediately dangerous than remote exploits but still concerning from a privacy and security standpoint. The vulnerability could enable attackers to extract sensitive data that might aid in more sophisticated attacks, such as privilege escalation or further exploitation of other system components. From an adversarial perspective, this flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1005 which involves data from local system repositories, and T1059 which encompasses command and scripting interpreter usage that could be employed to leverage the information disclosure for further compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying the manufacturer-provided security patches and updates that address the specific bounds checking deficiencies in the libnvrm library. Device users should ensure their Android systems are updated to versions that include the fixed implementation of the graphics driver components. System administrators and security teams should prioritize patch management for devices running affected Android versions, particularly those in enterprise environments where the risk of information disclosure could have broader implications. Additional defensive measures include implementing runtime monitoring for suspicious memory access patterns and maintaining strict access controls to prevent unauthorized local execution. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation in system libraries, especially those handling graphics processing tasks where memory management complexity can introduce subtle but dangerous flaws. Organizations should also consider implementing security code reviews and static analysis tools to identify similar bounds checking issues in other system components that may not have been discovered through standard vulnerability scanning procedures.