CVE-2018-11912 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 configuration of daemons may lead to unprivileged access.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-11912 represents a critical security flaw affecting multiple Android variants including Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android platforms. This issue stems from improper configuration of daemons within the Linux kernel framework that serves as the foundation for these mobile operating systems. The vulnerability specifically targets the daemon configuration processes that control background services and system processes, creating potential entry points for unauthorized access.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper initialization and configuration of system daemons during the boot process or runtime execution. When daemons are not properly configured with appropriate access controls, privilege levels, or security boundaries, they may inadvertently expose system resources or functionality to unprivileged users or processes. This misconfiguration typically involves inadequate permission settings, missing security checks, or flawed privilege escalation mechanisms within the daemon initialization sequences. The vulnerability manifests when these improperly configured daemons fail to properly enforce access controls, allowing malicious actors to exploit the system through these weakened service endpoints.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant security risks for affected Android devices and systems. Unprivileged users or malicious applications could potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive system functions, data, or services that should normally be restricted to privileged processes. The implications extend beyond simple data access, as these compromised daemons might provide pathways for privilege escalation, system reconnaissance, or even complete system compromise. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code, modify system configurations, or access confidential information stored within the device's memory or storage systems. The widespread nature of this vulnerability across multiple Android variants and Qualcomm-based platforms amplifies its potential impact.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-732, which addresses improper restriction of operations within a security boundary, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting local privilege escalation vulnerabilities. Organizations and device manufacturers should implement immediate mitigations including proper daemon configuration reviews, access control enforcement, and privilege boundary implementation. Recommended remediation strategies involve updating kernel configurations, implementing proper daemon security policies, and conducting comprehensive security audits of all system services. Additionally, applying the latest security patches from Qualcomm and Android security teams is essential for addressing this vulnerability. The mitigation approach should focus on strengthening the security boundaries around daemon processes and ensuring that all system services operate with the principle of least privilege to prevent unauthorized access escalation.