CVE-2018-3565 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
While sending a probe request indication in lim_send_sme_probe_req_ind() in all Android releases from CAF (Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) using the Linux Kernel, a buffer overflow can occur.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/15/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-3565 represents a critical buffer overflow condition affecting Android devices running on Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets. This flaw exists within the wireless networking subsystem where the lim_send_sme_probe_req_ind() function processes probe request indications. The vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking during the handling of wireless network probe requests, creating a potential execution path where maliciously crafted network packets could trigger memory corruption. The affected platforms include Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android releases, indicating a widespread impact across Qualcomm-based mobile devices.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the Linux kernel's wireless subsystem where the function fails to properly validate the length of incoming probe request data before copying it into fixed-size buffers. This oversight allows an attacker to craft probe request frames containing excessive data that exceeds the allocated buffer boundaries. When the kernel attempts to process these malformed packets, the overflow can overwrite adjacent memory regions, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The vulnerability specifically targets the Linux kernel's wireless management interface, which handles the communication between the wireless driver and the network management entity.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-3565 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it presents a significant security risk for mobile device users. An attacker positioned within wireless network range could exploit this vulnerability by broadcasting specially crafted probe requests that trigger the buffer overflow condition. This attack vector operates at the network layer and can be executed without requiring user interaction or device-specific privileges. The vulnerability's exploitation could result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute malicious code with kernel-level privileges, potentially leading to persistent backdoor installation, data exfiltration, or complete device takeover. The widespread adoption of Qualcomm chipsets in mobile devices amplifies the potential impact across millions of affected devices.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-3565 should focus on immediate patch deployment and network monitoring. Device manufacturers must prioritize the application of security patches that implement proper bounds checking within the lim_send_sme_probe_req_ind() function, ensuring that all incoming probe request data is validated against buffer size limitations. Network administrators should implement wireless intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious probe request patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through wireless protocols. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and wireless access control measures to limit the potential attack surface while awaiting full patch deployment across all affected systems.