CVE-2018-11262 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android with all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel while trying to find out total number of partition via a non zero check, there could be possibility where the 'TotalPart' could cross 'GptHeader->MaxPtCnt' and which could result in OOB write in patching GPT.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/07/2023
This vulnerability exists in Android for MSM Firefox OS for MSM and QRD Android systems that utilize the Linux kernel for partition management operations. The flaw occurs during the process of determining the total number of partitions through a non-zero check mechanism that fails to properly validate boundary conditions. When the system attempts to calculate the total partition count the variable 'TotalPart' can exceed the maximum partition count specified in the GPT header structure represented by 'GptHeader->MaxPtCnt'. This condition creates a scenario where the system performs an out-of-bounds write operation while attempting to patch or modify the GPT structure. The vulnerability represents a classic buffer overflow condition that can be exploited to corrupt critical data structures within the partition table.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper validation of partition count calculations within the Linux kernel's GPT handling code. When the system performs a non-zero check to determine partition totals it does not adequately verify that the calculated value remains within the bounds established by the GPT header's maximum partition count field. This allows an attacker to manipulate the partition count calculation such that 'TotalPart' surpasses 'GptHeader->MaxPtCnt' and subsequently triggers an out-of-bounds write operation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel level where malicious code can directly manipulate the GPT structure that governs disk partitioning and boot processes. This issue falls under CWE-121 which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions and CWE-787 which addresses out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a privilege escalation technique where an attacker can leverage kernel-level vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to critical system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data corruption as it can enable attackers to manipulate the partition table structure which directly affects system boot processes and data integrity. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially modify or delete critical partitions thereby rendering the device unbootable or creating backdoor access points. The vulnerability affects all Android releases from CAF that utilize the Linux kernel and operates at a low level where system administrators have limited visibility into the partition management processes. This creates a significant risk for mobile devices where partition table corruption can lead to complete system failure and data loss. The exploitation requires careful manipulation of partition count calculations but once achieved can result in persistent system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in mobile environments where the GPT structure is critical for device boot processes and secure boot mechanisms. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including kernel updates and partition validation checks to prevent exploitation of this critical vulnerability.