CVE-2017-8150 in P10
Summary
by MITRE
The boot loaders of P10 and P10 Plus Huawei mobile phones with software the versions before Victoria-L09AC605B162, the versions before Victoria-L29AC605B162, the versions before Vicky-L29AC605B162 have an arbitrary memory write vulnerability due to the lack of parameter validation. An attacker with the root privilege of an Android system may trick a user into installing a malicious APP. The APP can modify specific data to cause arbitrary memory writing in the next system reboot, causing continuous system reboot or arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-8150 represents a critical security flaw in the boot loader implementations of Huawei P10 and P10 Plus mobile devices. This weakness stems from insufficient parameter validation within the bootloader code, creating an arbitrary memory write vulnerability that can be exploited by malicious actors. The affected software versions include various iterations of the Victoria and Vicky series, specifically those preceding the mentioned build numbers. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the bootloader level, which is one of the most critical components in mobile device security architecture where system integrity is established during the boot process. The flaw exists in the early stages of device initialization, making it potentially devastating for system security and stability.
The technical nature of this vulnerability allows for unauthorized memory modifications through a malicious application that can be installed on the device. When an attacker with root privileges on an Android system persuades a user to install such an application, the malicious software can manipulate specific data structures that will be processed during the next system reboot. This creates a persistent backdoor mechanism where the bootloader will execute arbitrary code during the boot sequence, effectively bypassing traditional security measures. The vulnerability operates under the principle of privilege escalation combined with persistent code execution, where a user-level application can gain system-level capabilities through manipulation of bootloader parameters. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of bootkit attacks, which are particularly dangerous because they can survive operating system reinstalls and are difficult to detect through conventional means.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8150 extends beyond simple system instability, as it can lead to complete system compromise and persistent access for attackers. The continuous system reboot behavior mentioned in the description indicates that the malicious code can cause the device to enter an infinite boot loop, effectively rendering the device unusable while simultaneously providing a persistent attack vector. Additionally, the arbitrary code execution capability means that attackers can install additional malware, steal sensitive data, or maintain long-term access to the device. This vulnerability represents a serious threat to device security and user privacy, particularly in environments where mobile devices contain sensitive corporate or personal information. The attack vector relies on social engineering to gain initial access through malicious applications, making it particularly challenging to defend against as it requires user interaction to activate.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate firmware updates from Huawei to patch the bootloader implementation. Users must be advised to update their devices to versions that include proper parameter validation and memory access controls within the bootloader. Security professionals should implement network-based monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts through unusual boot patterns or malicious application installations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-122, which describes insufficient validation of input parameters, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation." Organizations should also consider implementing mobile device management policies that restrict installation of applications from untrusted sources and conduct regular security audits of mobile devices to detect potential compromise. Given the nature of the vulnerability, regular security assessments and device monitoring are essential to prevent exploitation, as the bootloader-based attack can persist even after operating system-level security measures are bypassed.