CVE-2018-11296 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all android releases(Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) from CAF using the linux kernel, while processing a message from firmware in WLAN handler, a buffer overwrite can occur.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2023
This vulnerability exists within the Linux kernel implementations used in various Android platforms including MSM variants, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android systems. The flaw manifests during the processing of messages transmitted from firmware components to the WLAN handler subsystem, creating a potential buffer overflow condition that could be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability affects multiple device manufacturers who utilize code from the Code Aurora Forum (CAF) and represents a critical security risk in wireless communication stacks. The buffer overwrite occurs when firmware messages are not properly validated or constrained before being processed by the kernel's WLAN handler module, leading to potential memory corruption and system instability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the kernel's wireless firmware message processing routines. When firmware components send messages to the WLAN handler, the kernel fails to properly bounds-check the incoming data before copying it into fixed-size buffers. This classic buffer overflow condition allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with malicious data, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel level within the wireless subsystem, providing a direct pathway for privilege escalation and system compromise. According to CWE standards, this represents a buffer overflow weakness classified under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system instability to encompass serious security implications for affected devices. Attackers could potentially exploit this condition to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, effectively compromising the entire device. The vulnerability affects devices that rely on Qualcomm's MSM (Mobile Station Modem) platforms, which are widely deployed across numerous Android smartphones, tablets, and IoT devices. The nature of the flaw means that exploitation could occur without requiring physical access to the device, potentially enabling remote attacks through malicious wireless communications. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which describes 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' and represents a critical entry point for adversaries seeking to gain elevated system privileges.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected kernel versions and firmware components. Device manufacturers should implement comprehensive input validation measures within the WLAN handler subsystem to prevent buffer overflows during firmware message processing. The recommended approach includes implementing proper bounds checking, using safe string manipulation functions, and applying memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization. Additionally, security researchers should monitor for related vulnerabilities in similar wireless subsystem implementations and consider implementing runtime protection measures. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected devices to patched kernel versions and conduct thorough security assessments of wireless communication stacks to identify potential similar vulnerabilities in other subsystems. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices in kernel-level code and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of firmware interfaces.