CVE-2018-11908 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all android releases(Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) from CAF using the linux kernel, improper access control can lead to device node and executable to be run from /data/ which presents a potential issue.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2023
This vulnerability affects multiple android implementations including Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android systems that utilize the linux kernel. The core issue stems from inadequate access control mechanisms within the kernel that permit unauthorized execution of device nodes and binaries from the /data/ partition. The /data/ partition represents a critical security boundary where user data and applications are stored, making it a prime target for privilege escalation attacks. When proper access controls fail, malicious actors can exploit this weakness to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially compromising the entire system. The vulnerability manifests through improper validation of file permissions and access rights, allowing unauthorized processes to traverse security boundaries and gain unauthorized access to sensitive system resources.
The technical flaw operates at the kernel level where device node access controls are improperly enforced. Device nodes in linux systems typically require specific permissions and access controls to prevent unauthorized execution or modification. In this case, the kernel fails to properly validate access requests for files located in the /data/ directory, which should normally be restricted to authorized system processes. This misconfiguration enables attackers to manipulate device node permissions or directly execute binaries from the /data/ partition, bypassing normal security mechanisms. The vulnerability represents a classic improper access control issue that aligns with CWE-284, which specifically addresses insufficient access control in software systems. The flaw essentially creates a backdoor pathway through which malicious code can be executed with system-level privileges, undermining the fundamental security model of the android operating system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise. Attackers who successfully exploit this weakness can gain root access to affected devices, enabling them to install persistent backdoors, extract sensitive user data, modify system configurations, or deploy additional malware. The /data/ partition typically contains user applications, personal information, and system configuration files, making it a valuable target for attackers seeking to maintain long-term access to compromised devices. Furthermore, since this affects multiple android variants including both mainstream android implementations and specialized versions like Firefox OS for MSM, the attack surface is significantly broadened. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious applications, compromised update mechanisms, or physical access to devices, making it particularly dangerous in environments where device security is paramount. This weakness directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of the entire system, potentially leading to data breaches, privacy violations, and unauthorized surveillance operations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of kernel-level access control enhancements and comprehensive system hardening measures. System administrators should prioritize applying vendor security patches and updates as soon as they become available, since this vulnerability affects multiple android implementations and requires coordinated remediation efforts across different device manufacturers. The security model should be strengthened through proper enforcement of file permissions and access controls, particularly for the /data/ partition and associated device nodes. Additional mitigations include implementing mandatory access controls, enhancing kernel security modules, and conducting regular security audits to identify and address similar access control weaknesses. Organizations should also consider deploying mobile device management solutions that can monitor and restrict unauthorized execution of binaries from sensitive partitions. The remediation process should align with established security frameworks and best practices, ensuring that access control mechanisms are properly configured to prevent unauthorized execution of code from potentially compromised locations. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to detect and address similar access control issues that may exist in other parts of the system architecture.