CVE-2018-11995 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all android releases(Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) from CAF using the linux kernel, a partition name-check variable is not reset for every iteration which may cause improper termination in the META image.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2023
This vulnerability exists in Android-based systems utilizing the Linux kernel from Code Aurora Forum with specific versions of MSM (Mobile Station Modem) hardware platforms including Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android. The flaw manifests in the META image processing mechanism where a partition name-check variable fails to reset properly across iterations during the partition validation process. This condition creates a scenario where the system may prematurely terminate the partition validation routine due to incorrect state management in the variable that tracks partition names. The improper termination can lead to incomplete or incorrect handling of partition data structures within the META image, potentially compromising the integrity of the system's boot process or partition management subsystem.
The technical root cause stems from a classic software defect pattern where a variable intended for iterative validation maintains its state across multiple loop iterations without proper initialization. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-691, which describes insufficient control flow management in loops, and represents a failure in proper variable scoping and initialization practices. The flaw demonstrates poor defensive programming where the system assumes that a variable's previous state will be appropriately handled in subsequent iterations, leading to unpredictable behavior when partition names are processed in sequence.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple functional failure to potentially compromise system security and stability. When the partition name-check variable fails to reset properly, the system may skip validation of certain partitions or incorrectly validate partitions that should be rejected, creating potential attack vectors for malicious actors attempting to manipulate boot images or partition structures. This vulnerability could enable adversaries to bypass partition validation mechanisms, potentially allowing unauthorized modifications to critical system components during the boot process. The risk is particularly concerning in embedded systems and mobile platforms where the integrity of the boot chain is paramount to overall system security.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on ensuring proper variable initialization within loop constructs and implementing comprehensive input validation for partition name processing. System administrators should ensure that all affected Android implementations receive timely security updates from their vendors, particularly those utilizing Code Aurora Forum kernel versions. The fix requires modification of the META image processing code to explicitly reset the partition name-check variable at the beginning of each iteration cycle, preventing state leakage between validation operations. Additionally, implementing proper static analysis and code review processes that specifically target loop control flow patterns can help prevent similar issues in future development cycles. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime monitoring to detect anomalous behavior in partition validation routines that could indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of adhering to secure coding practices and proper state management in embedded systems development, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter usage in potentially compromised system contexts.