CVE-2017-9682 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all Qualcomm products with Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, a race condition in two KGSL driver functions can lead to a Use After Free condition.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9682 represents a critical race condition flaw within the KGSL (Kernel Graphics Subsystem) driver component of Qualcomm's Android-based products. This issue affects all Qualcomm products utilizing the Linux kernel with Android releases from the Code Aurora Forum, making it a widespread concern across numerous mobile devices and embedded systems. The flaw manifests in the interaction between two specific KGSL driver functions, where improper synchronization mechanisms allow for a temporal window during which memory operations can be exploited. This race condition creates an opportunity for malicious actors to manipulate the system's memory management and potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate locking mechanisms within the KGSL driver's memory management functions. When these two specific functions are invoked concurrently or in rapid succession, the driver fails to properly enforce mutual exclusion protocols, leading to a scenario where a memory allocation can be freed while still being referenced by another process or thread. This Use After Free condition creates a predictable memory layout that attackers can exploit to overwrite critical data structures or execute malicious code within kernel space. The flaw specifically affects the graphics processing unit's memory management subsystem, which is integral to device performance and security. According to CWE standards, this vulnerability maps to CWE-362, which describes race conditions that can lead to security flaws, while the ATT&CK framework would classify this under privilege escalation techniques involving kernel exploits.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-9682 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides attackers with a pathway to achieve kernel-level privilege escalation. Devices affected by this vulnerability become susceptible to full system compromise, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive user data, device control, and persistent backdoor installation. The exploitation requires minimal privileges initially, as the race condition can be triggered through normal device operations or malicious applications that leverage graphics processing functions. Mobile devices utilizing Qualcomm processors, particularly those running Android versions from CAF, are at risk, including smartphones, tablets, and IoT devices that rely on Qualcomm's graphics processing capabilities. The vulnerability's impact is amplified because graphics processing is a fundamental component of modern mobile operating systems, making it difficult to isolate or disable without affecting core device functionality.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9682 require immediate patch deployment from Qualcomm and device manufacturers, as the vulnerability exists at the kernel driver level and cannot be effectively addressed through application-level fixes alone. System administrators should prioritize updating all affected devices to the latest security patches provided by Qualcomm, which typically involve correcting the synchronization mechanisms within the KGSL driver functions. Additionally, implementing runtime monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous memory access patterns or unauthorized kernel modifications may help identify exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper concurrent programming practices and the necessity of thorough testing for race conditions in kernel-level components. Organizations should also consider implementing device hardening measures such as kernel address space layout randomization and exploit protection mechanisms to reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts, while maintaining awareness of the broader security implications for their mobile device fleets.