CVE-2018-5827 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, a buffer overflow vulnerability exists in WLAN while processing an extscan hotlist event.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/14/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-5827 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw affecting multiple Qualcomm Android platforms including MSM variants, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android implementations. This security weakness resides within the wireless local area network subsystem of the Linux kernel, specifically during the processing of extscan hotlist events. The flaw demonstrates the inherent risks associated with wireless communication protocols and their integration with mobile operating systems, particularly when dealing with extended scanning functionalities that monitor network hotlists.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the WLAN driver component responsible for handling extscan hotlist events. When the system receives and processes these events, insufficient boundary checks allow maliciously crafted data to overwrite adjacent memory regions, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. This buffer overflow condition occurs at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it can compromise the entire system security posture. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which addresses heap-based buffer overflow scenarios that may occur during dynamic memory allocation processes.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-5827 extends beyond simple system instability, as it creates potential attack vectors for malicious actors targeting mobile devices running affected Qualcomm platforms. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to execute unauthorized code with kernel-level privileges, potentially gaining complete control over the device. This scenario directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, where an attacker might leverage the buffer overflow to establish persistent access. The vulnerability affects all Android releases from CAF (Code Aurora Forum) using the Linux kernel, indicating a widespread exposure across multiple device manufacturers and firmware versions.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected kernel components, with device manufacturers implementing security updates through their standard update channels. System administrators should prioritize deployment of these patches across all affected devices, particularly those in enterprise environments where wireless connectivity is critical. Additional defensive measures include network segmentation to limit wireless access points and implementing monitoring solutions to detect anomalous scanning behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of proper input validation and memory safety practices in kernel development, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-144 and ISO/IEC 27001 standards for embedded system security. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all devices running affected Qualcomm platforms and ensure proper patch management protocols are in place to prevent exploitation attempts targeting this specific buffer overflow condition.