CVE-2018-11293 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all android releases(Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) from CAF using the linux kernel, in wma_ndp_confirm_event_handler and wma_ndp_indication_event_handler, ndp_cfg len and num_ndp_app_info is from fw. If they are not checked, it may cause buffer over-read once the value is too large.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2023
This vulnerability exists in Android-based systems utilizing the Linux kernel, specifically affecting Qualcomm Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android implementations. The flaw manifests in the wireless multimedia application layer functions wma_ndp_confirm_event_handler and wma_ndp_indication_event_handler where the system processes network data packets without proper validation of critical parameters. The vulnerability stems from the direct acceptance of ndp_cfg len and num_ndp_app_info values from firmware without adequate bounds checking, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted firmware responses could trigger memory corruption issues. This represents a classic buffer over-read condition that can be exploited to access memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries, potentially leading to information disclosure or system instability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the kernel-level processing of network data path events where firmware-provided parameters control the memory allocation and access patterns. When the firmware sends unexpected values for ndp_cfg len and num_ndp_app_info, the system fails to validate these inputs against expected ranges or maximum limits. This unchecked parameter processing allows attackers to manipulate the memory access patterns and potentially trigger memory corruption that could be leveraged for privilege escalation or denial of service conditions. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates at the kernel level where memory access controls are more permissive, making it a prime target for exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, potentially enabling sophisticated attack vectors that could compromise system integrity and confidentiality. An attacker with access to the firmware update mechanism or network communication channel could craft malicious firmware responses that trigger the buffer over-read condition. This could result in unauthorized data access, system crashes, or potentially more severe consequences depending on the specific implementation details of the affected systems. The vulnerability affects multiple Qualcomm-based Android platforms, making it a widespread concern for organizations deploying these technologies. According to CWE classification, this represents a buffer over-read vulnerability (CWE-125) that occurs due to insufficient input validation of external data sources.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust input validation mechanisms within the kernel-level wireless communication handlers. System administrators should ensure that firmware updates are properly validated and that only trusted firmware versions are deployed to affected devices. The recommended approach includes adding bounds checking for ndp_cfg len and num_ndp_app_info parameters before any memory allocation or access operations occur. Additionally, implementing proper error handling and logging mechanisms can help detect anomalous firmware behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider applying security patches provided by the device manufacturers and monitoring for any signs of exploitation attempts in their network traffic. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability could be categorized under privilege escalation techniques or denial of service conditions, with potential for lateral movement if exploited successfully. The vulnerability highlights the importance of validating all external inputs in kernel-level code and demonstrates how seemingly minor input validation gaps can lead to significant security implications in embedded systems.