CVE-2018-11873 in Snapdragon Mobile
Summary
by MITRE
Improper input validation leads to buffer overwrite in the WLAN function that handles WLAN roam buffer in Snapdragon Mobile in version SD 845.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-11873 represents a critical buffer overflow condition within the wireless local area network functionality of Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 mobile platforms. This flaw specifically manifests in the WLAN roam buffer handling mechanism, where insufficient input validation permits maliciously crafted data to overwrite adjacent memory regions. The vulnerability exists at the intersection of wireless communication protocols and embedded system security, creating a potential pathway for remote code execution or system compromise. The Snapdragon 845 chipset, widely deployed in high-end smartphones and tablets, makes this vulnerability particularly concerning due to its extensive market penetration and the sensitive nature of mobile device operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the WLAN roam buffer management code. When the system processes wireless network roam events, it fails to adequately validate the size and content of incoming data structures before copying them into fixed-size buffers. This classic buffer overflow condition allows an attacker to craft input data that exceeds the allocated buffer space, resulting in memory corruption that can be exploited to overwrite critical system variables, function pointers, or return addresses. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level within the wireless subsystem, making exploitation potentially more severe than typical user-space buffer overflows. According to CWE classification, this represents a CWE-121: Stack-based Buffer Overflow, while the ATT&CK framework would categorize this under T1059.007: Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell and potentially T1068: Exploitation for Privilege Escalation.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-11873 extends beyond simple memory corruption, potentially enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges on affected devices. This capability could allow for complete system compromise, persistent backdoor installation, or data exfiltration from mobile devices. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where mobile devices handle sensitive corporate or personal information, as it could be exploited to gain unauthorized access to encrypted data, intercept communications, or establish persistent access points. Mobile device users may be exposed to attacks during routine wireless network operations, including when devices automatically connect to public Wi-Fi networks or when roaming between different wireless access points. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it requires minimal user interaction beyond normal device operation, making it particularly insidious in real-world scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-11873 primarily focus on firmware and software updates from device manufacturers, as the vulnerability resides within Qualcomm's proprietary wireless subsystem code. Users should ensure their devices receive the latest security patches, particularly those released by Qualcomm and device manufacturers following the vulnerability disclosure. Network administrators should monitor for device updates and implement network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors. The vulnerability cannot be effectively mitigated through traditional network security controls as it operates at the device kernel level. Organizations should consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can enforce security policies and ensure timely patch deployment. Additionally, security researchers and vendors should maintain vigilance for similar vulnerabilities in related Qualcomm chipsets and wireless subsystem implementations. The ATT&CK framework suggests that organizations should develop incident response procedures specifically addressing kernel-level exploits and implement continuous monitoring for anomalous wireless network behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts.