CVE-2018-11302 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all android releases(Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) from CAF using the linux kernel, lack of check of input received from userspace before copying into buffer can lead to potential array overflow in WLAN.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2023
This vulnerability exists within the linux kernel implementations used across various android platforms including Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android systems. The flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition that occurs when user space applications provide input data to kernel space components without proper validation mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically impacts wireless local area network subsystems where data from userspace is copied into kernel buffers without adequate bounds checking. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though it manifests in kernel space rather than user space contexts. The issue stems from insufficient input sanitization processes that should validate data lengths and content before memory operations occur.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows potential attackers to execute arbitrary code within kernel space, which provides complete system compromise capabilities. When malicious input is passed through the wireless subsystem, the lack of proper bounds checking can cause data to overflow into adjacent memory regions, potentially overwriting critical kernel data structures or executable code. This condition enables privilege escalation attacks where an unprivileged user space process can gain kernel level privileges, effectively breaking the fundamental security model of the operating system. The vulnerability affects multiple device types and manufacturers who utilize Qualcomm's kernel implementations, creating widespread exposure across the mobile ecosystem.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves exploiting local privileges to gain system-level access. The attack vector typically involves crafting malicious input packets or configuration data that when processed by the kernel's wireless subsystem triggers the buffer overflow condition. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install persistent backdoors, extract sensitive system information, or disable security features. The exploitability is enhanced by the fact that the vulnerability exists in the kernel space processing of legitimate wireless communication protocols, making detection more difficult. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including kernel updates, input validation patches, and network segmentation to prevent exploitation. Additionally, monitoring for unusual wireless communication patterns and implementing kernel hardening measures such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization can reduce the attack surface and impact of this vulnerability.
The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in kernel space operations where the consequences of inadequate bounds checking can lead to complete system compromise. This represents a fundamental security failure in the design of kernel interfaces that handle user space data, highlighting the need for rigorous security testing and code review processes in operating system development. The widespread impact across multiple android variants and hardware platforms underscores the necessity for coordinated security response efforts and timely patch deployment across the entire ecosystem.