CVE-2017-9706 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android, with all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel, an array out-of-bounds access can potentially occur in a display driver.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/16/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9706 represents a critical array out-of-bounds access flaw within the display driver component of Android-based systems. This issue affects multiple Android variants including MSM (Mobile Station Modem) platforms, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android implementations. The vulnerability stems from the Linux kernel framework that underpins these mobile operating systems, making it particularly concerning given the widespread adoption of these platforms across various mobile devices. The flaw manifests specifically within the display driver subsystem, which is responsible for managing graphical output and rendering operations on mobile devices. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-129 category of "Improper Validation of Array Index" and represents a classic buffer overflow condition that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code or cause system instability.
The technical nature of this vulnerability allows for potential exploitation through malicious input that manipulates array indexing within the display driver code. When the driver processes graphical data or display commands, an attacker can craft inputs that cause the system to access memory locations outside the intended array boundaries. This out-of-bounds access can result in memory corruption, leading to unpredictable behavior including system crashes, application instability, or more severe consequences such as privilege escalation. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in mobile environments where display drivers handle sensitive graphical operations and interact with various system components. The attack surface is expanded due to the Linux kernel's role as the foundational layer for these platforms, meaning that exploitation could potentially affect multiple device manufacturers and models that utilize Common Android Framework (CAF) components.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-9706 extends beyond simple system crashes to encompass potential security breaches and device compromise. Mobile devices running affected systems could be vulnerable to remote code execution attacks, especially when processing untrusted graphical content or when applications interact with the display subsystem. The vulnerability's presence in the Linux kernel components means that it affects not just individual applications but potentially the entire operating system framework. This type of flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves exploiting local privileges to gain system-level access, and T1203 which covers exploitation of software vulnerabilities for privilege escalation. The risk is compounded by the fact that display drivers often run with elevated privileges, making successful exploitation potentially devastating for device security and user privacy.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems through security updates provided by device manufacturers and Google. Organizations should implement comprehensive vulnerability management programs that include regular monitoring of security advisories and prompt deployment of patches. The recommended approach involves updating the Linux kernel components and display driver implementations to address the array indexing flaw. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as application sandboxing, memory protection mechanisms, and monitoring for anomalous display driver behavior. Device manufacturers should conduct thorough security testing of their display driver implementations and consider implementing bounds checking and input validation mechanisms to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in future releases. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices in kernel-level components and highlights the need for continuous security assessment of foundational system elements.