CVE-2018-3596 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In Qualcomm Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android with all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel before security patch level 2018-04-05, legacy code vulnerable after migration has been removed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-3596 represents a critical security flaw affecting Qualcomm Android platforms, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android systems utilizing Linux kernel versions prior to the 2018-04-05 security patch level. This issue stems from the removal of legacy code during system migration processes, creating a persistent security weakness that undermines the integrity of the affected platforms. The vulnerability specifically targets the kernel-level implementation where deprecated code segments were eliminated without proper sanitization, leaving residual attack vectors accessible to malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of legacy kernel modules and code paths that were deemed obsolete during system updates. When these legacy components are removed from the kernel source, the transition process fails to completely eliminate all references or maintain proper access controls, resulting in potential privilege escalation opportunities. The flaw operates at the kernel level, allowing attackers to exploit remnants of deprecated code that should have been fully decommissioned, thereby creating a backdoor for unauthorized system access and potential elevation of privileges.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to mobile device security across the affected Qualcomm platforms, particularly impacting devices running Android versions through the CAF (Code Aurora Forum) ecosystem. The exploitation of CVE-2018-3596 could enable attackers to gain root-level access to devices, potentially compromising user data, enabling persistent surveillance, or facilitating further lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond individual device compromise to potentially affect entire fleets of mobile devices deployed in enterprise or government environments where security is paramount.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with CWE-691, which addresses insufficient control flow protection, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1068, involving privilege escalation through kernel exploits. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including applying the 2018-04-05 security patches, conducting comprehensive vulnerability assessments of affected systems, and monitoring for potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing network segmentation and enhanced monitoring protocols to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The remediation process requires careful attention to ensure complete removal of legacy code paths while maintaining system functionality, as incomplete patching could leave residual vulnerabilities that attackers might leverage for advanced persistent threats.