CVE-2018-3577 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
While processing fragments, when the fragment count becomes very large, an integer overflow leading to a buffer overflow can occur 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.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-3577 represents a critical integer overflow condition that can lead to buffer overflow exploits within Android systems utilizing the Linux kernel. This flaw specifically manifests during fragment processing operations where the system encounters exceptionally large fragment counts, creating conditions that allow malicious actors to manipulate memory boundaries through mathematical overflow techniques. The vulnerability affects multiple Android variants including Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android platforms, making it particularly widespread across various device architectures and security configurations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation during fragment handling processes within the kernel's network stack processing. When fragment counts exceed the maximum representable value for the integer data type being used, the system experiences an integer overflow that subsequently corrupts adjacent memory regions. This overflow condition creates opportunities for attackers to overwrite critical memory locations, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system instability. The flaw operates at the kernel level where network packet fragmentation is processed, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through network-based attacks without requiring local privileges or user interaction.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to affected Android systems deployed in enterprise environments, mobile networks, and consumer devices. The exploitation of this condition can result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute malicious code with kernel-level privileges, escalate their access, and potentially gain persistent control over affected devices. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond individual device compromise to potentially affect entire network infrastructures where mobile devices communicate with servers and other network endpoints. Security researchers have classified this issue as high severity due to its potential for remote code execution and the widespread adoption of affected Android variants across multiple manufacturers and device types.
Organizations and device manufacturers should prioritize immediate patch deployment to address this vulnerability, with security patches released as part of the 2018-06-05 security update cycle. The recommended mitigation strategy involves implementing kernel-level input validation controls that prevent fragment count values from exceeding safe integer limits, along with comprehensive network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. System administrators should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which describes integer overflow conditions, and represents a significant concern for ATT&CK framework targeting techniques related to privilege escalation and remote code execution through kernel-level vulnerabilities. The affected systems require continuous monitoring for signs of exploitation and should implement robust patch management processes to ensure all vulnerable components receive timely security updates.