CVE-2018-11964 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all android releases(Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) from CAF using the linux kernel, Exposing the hashed content in /etc/passwd may lead to security issue.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/22/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-11964 represents a significant security flaw affecting multiple android platforms including MSM variants, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android systems that utilize the linux kernel. This issue stems from improper handling of hashed password content within the /etc/passwd file, creating potential exposure risks for system authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically targets the Linux kernel implementations used across these mobile platforms, making it particularly concerning given the widespread adoption of these systems in enterprise and consumer environments.
The technical flaw manifests when hashed password contents are inadvertently exposed through the /etc/passwd file structure, which typically contains user account information including username, user identifier, group identifier, home directory, and shell information. In affected systems, the hashing mechanism fails to properly obscure or protect the cryptographic hashes that represent user passwords, potentially allowing unauthorized access to these hashed values. This exposure occurs at the kernel level where the file system operations handle user account management and authentication data processing. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-200, which addresses information exposure through improper error handling, and represents a direct violation of secure credential storage practices.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-11964 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as exposed hashed passwords create opportunities for credential cracking attacks and privilege escalation attempts. Attackers can leverage these exposed hashes to perform offline password cracking using tools like John the Ripper or Hashcat, potentially gaining unauthorized access to user accounts and system resources. The vulnerability affects all android releases from CAF that utilize the linux kernel, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on these platforms for mobile device management and enterprise security. This issue directly correlates with ATT&CK technique T1212, which involves exploitation of system information discovery and credential access through compromised authentication mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate system updates and patches from the respective vendors including Qualcomm, Mozilla, and Android maintainers. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring of /etc/passwd file access patterns and conduct regular security audits to identify any unauthorized exposure of hashed credentials. System administrators must ensure that all affected devices receive the latest security patches and that proper access controls are implemented to restrict file system access to privileged users only. Additionally, implementing additional authentication layers such as two-factor authentication and regular credential rotation policies can help reduce the attack surface and mitigate potential exploitation of this vulnerability. The fix typically involves kernel-level modifications to ensure proper handling and protection of hashed password content within the system's user management infrastructure.