CVE-2017-8263 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all Qualcomm products with Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, a kernel fault can occur when doing certain operations on a read-only virtual address in userspace.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-8263 represents a critical kernel fault condition affecting Qualcomm products that incorporate Android-based systems utilizing the Linux kernel. This flaw manifests when specific operations are performed on read-only virtual addresses within userspace contexts, creating a potential pathway for system instability and exploitation. The vulnerability impacts all Qualcomm products utilizing Android releases from the Code Aurora Forum that operate on Linux kernel frameworks, indicating a widespread exposure across numerous mobile and embedded devices. The technical nature of this vulnerability places it within the domain of kernel-level memory management issues that can compromise system integrity and stability.
The underlying technical flaw stems from improper handling of memory operations when userspace applications attempt to perform certain operations on read-only virtual address mappings. This kernel fault occurs during memory management operations where the system fails to properly validate or handle access attempts to read-only memory regions, potentially leading to kernel crashes or unexpected behavior. The vulnerability specifically affects the Linux kernel implementation used in Qualcomm's Android-based products, making it particularly concerning for mobile devices that rely on these chipsets. This type of memory management error creates a condition where legitimate userspace operations can trigger kernel-level faults, potentially enabling privilege escalation or denial of service attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8263 extends beyond simple system instability, as it represents a potential entry point for more sophisticated attacks within the mobile security landscape. When a kernel fault occurs during read-only address operations, it can lead to system crashes that may be exploited to gain elevated privileges or cause persistent service disruptions. The vulnerability's presence in Qualcomm's Android implementations means that affected devices could experience unexpected reboots, application failures, or potentially more severe security implications depending on how the kernel fault is triggered. This vulnerability particularly affects the security model of Android devices that rely on Qualcomm's kernel implementations, potentially undermining the integrity of the security boundary between userspace and kernel space operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-8263 primarily focus on updating the affected Qualcomm products with patched kernel implementations that properly handle read-only address operations. System administrators and device manufacturers should prioritize applying the latest security patches provided by Qualcomm or the device vendors to address this kernel-level flaw. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-119 which addresses memory corruption issues in kernel space, and it may be relevant to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation and system exploitation. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management protocols to ensure all affected Qualcomm-based devices receive timely updates. Additionally, monitoring for unusual system behavior or kernel faults that may indicate exploitation attempts should be part of ongoing security operations. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of kernel security in mobile platforms and the need for robust memory management validation in embedded systems that rely on Linux kernel implementations.