CVE-2018-3564 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In the FastRPC driver in Android releases from CAF using the linux kernel (Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) before security patch level 2018-06-05, a Use After Free condition can occur when mapping on the remote processor fails.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-3564 represents a critical use after free condition within the FastRPC driver component of Android systems developed by Code Aurora Forum and utilizing the Linux kernel. This flaw exists in various Android variants including MSM-based Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android platforms, affecting all versions prior to the security patch level 2018-06-05. The vulnerability stems from improper memory management practices during remote processor mapping operations, creating a scenario where freed memory locations may be accessed or reused by subsequent operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the FastRPC driver's handling of memory allocation and deallocation processes when attempting to map remote processor resources. When a mapping operation fails, the system does not properly validate the state of allocated memory blocks before allowing subsequent operations to access them. This condition creates a race scenario where memory that has been freed by one process or operation can be reallocated and accessed by another process, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential code execution. The flaw operates at the kernel level within the Android operating system framework, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited to gain elevated privileges and compromise the entire system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system instability, as it provides potential attackers with a pathway to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. Attackers could leverage this use after free condition to manipulate memory contents, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data. The vulnerability affects devices running Android versions that incorporate the affected FastRPC driver, particularly those utilizing Qualcomm MSM processors and related hardware platforms. The timeframe of exposure spans from the initial release of affected Android versions through the specified patch date, leaving numerous devices vulnerable to exploitation.
Security mitigation for CVE-2018-3564 requires immediate implementation of the security patch released by Google on June 5, 2018, which addresses the memory management flaw in the FastRPC driver. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected Android devices to the latest security patches and ensure that all development environments are updated to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future implementations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use after free conditions, and represents a significant concern for ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting local privileges to gain system access. Additionally, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management in kernel-level drivers and highlights the need for comprehensive code review processes that identify and prevent such dangerous memory handling patterns in mobile operating system components.