CVE-2017-8159 in Agassi-L09HN
Summary
by MITRE
Some Huawei smartphones with software AGS-L09C233B019,AGS-W09C233B019,KOB-L09C233B017,KOB-W09C233B012 have a type confusion vulnerability. The program initializes a variable using one type, but it later accesses that variable using a type that is different with the original type when do certain register operation. Successful exploit could result in buffer overflow then may cause malicious code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-8159 represents a critical type confusion flaw affecting specific Huawei smartphone models including AGS-L09C233B019, AGS-W09C233B019, KOB-L09C233B017, and KOB-W09C233B012. This issue stems from improper handling of data types within the device's software implementation, creating a fundamental security weakness that can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability manifests during register operations where variables are initialized with one data type but subsequently accessed using a different type, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential system compromise. This type confusion vulnerability falls under the CWE-843 category, which specifically addresses the use of incorrect types in programming contexts where type safety is crucial for system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic type confusion scenario where memory management becomes compromised due to inconsistent type handling. When the software initializes variables with specific data types for register operations, the subsequent access patterns may not align with the original type definitions. This misalignment creates opportunities for buffer overflow conditions, as the system attempts to read or write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it occurs at the software level within the smartphone's operating system or firmware, providing attackers with a potential pathway to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data corruption, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive device functions.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability presents significant risks to users of affected Huawei devices, as it can be exploited remotely or through physical access to the device. The potential for malicious code execution means that attackers could gain control over the smartphone's core functions, including access to personal data, communication capabilities, and system resources. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in mobile environments where devices frequently connect to untrusted networks and handle sensitive information. The attack surface is broadened by the nature of smartphone usage patterns, where users may unknowingly interact with malicious content that triggers this type confusion vulnerability. The exploitability of this flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as successful exploitation would likely involve code execution capabilities.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-8159 should focus on immediate software updates from Huawei to address the root cause of the type confusion vulnerability. Users should ensure their devices are running the latest firmware versions that contain patches specifically designed to resolve the type handling inconsistencies in register operations. Security monitoring should be implemented to detect anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on memory access violations and buffer overflow indicators. Network security measures including intrusion detection systems should be configured to identify potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability. Additionally, organizations deploying these devices should conduct thorough security assessments and consider implementing device management policies that enforce automatic update mechanisms and regular security audits to prevent exploitation of this type confusion vulnerability. The remediation process should also include user education regarding the importance of keeping devices updated and avoiding untrusted applications that might trigger such memory management flaws.