CVE-2018-11832 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 input size validation before copying to buffer in PMIC function can lead to heap overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2023
This vulnerability exists within the linux kernel implementation across multiple android variants including Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android platforms. The issue stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the PMIC (Power Management Integrated Circuit) function that handles buffer operations. The flaw allows for potential heap overflow conditions when data is copied to buffers without proper size checking, creating a critical security weakness that could be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the PMIC driver functionality where data transfer operations occur without adequate boundary checking. When user-supplied input is passed to the PMIC function for processing, the kernel fails to validate the input size against the allocated buffer dimensions. This allows attackers to provide oversized data that exceeds the intended buffer capacity, resulting in memory corruption that can overwrite adjacent heap memory regions. The vulnerability specifically affects the kernel-level buffer management routines that handle power management communications, making it particularly dangerous as it operates at the system level.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-11832 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as heap overflow conditions can lead to arbitrary code execution, system instability, and potential privilege escalation. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to inject malicious code into the kernel space, potentially gaining root access to affected devices. The vulnerability affects multiple device platforms and operating system versions, amplifying its potential impact across the mobile ecosystem. System crashes, data corruption, and unauthorized access to sensitive device functions represent the primary operational consequences that could affect user privacy and device integrity.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation mechanisms within the PMIC driver code, including bounds checking before buffer operations. Kernel updates and patches addressing the specific buffer overflow conditions in the PMIC function are essential remediation steps. Security researchers should enforce strict adherence to secure coding practices and implement defensive programming techniques such as using safe string copy functions and validating all input parameters. Organizations should also consider runtime protections and memory corruption detection mechanisms to identify and prevent exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 and CWE-122 categories related to buffer overflow conditions and improper input validation, while potentially mapping to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation and code injection within the kernel execution environment.