CVE-2018-5834 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In __wlan_hdd_cfg80211_vendor_scan(), a buffer overwrite can potentially 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-2018-5834 represents a critical buffer overread condition affecting Android devices running kernel versions from the Qualcomm Android for MSM platform. This flaw exists within the wireless networking subsystem, specifically in the wlan_hdd_cfg80211_vendor_scan() function that handles vendor-specific scan operations. The vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking when processing wireless scan request parameters, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted scan requests could trigger memory corruption. The affected platforms include Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android releases, with the issue persisting across multiple security patch levels prior to June 5th, 2018. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though the specific implementation manifests as a buffer overread condition that can lead to information disclosure or potential code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the wlan_hdd_cfg80211_vendor_scan() function processes vendor command parameters without adequate validation of input lengths or buffer boundaries. When a wireless scan request contains malformed or excessively large parameter structures, the function fails to properly validate the size of incoming data before copying it into fixed-size buffers. This allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting critical kernel data structures or even executing arbitrary code with kernel privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the wireless driver layer, which typically runs with elevated privileges and has direct access to hardware components. Attackers could exploit this through specially crafted wireless scan requests, potentially originating from malicious Wi-Fi networks or compromised devices within range, making it a significant threat to mobile device security and network integrity.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-5834 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it represents a potential escalation path for attackers seeking to compromise Android devices. The vulnerability enables an attacker to potentially execute arbitrary code in kernel space, which could lead to complete device compromise, persistent backdoor installation, or data exfiltration from the affected system. Given that the affected platforms include widely deployed mobile devices and IoT systems, the potential attack surface is extensive. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges since it operates within the wireless subsystem, and the attack can be performed remotely through wireless network interactions. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers could leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access and execute malicious commands. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1068 for local privilege escalation, as it provides a path to kernel-level access from user-space applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-5834 primarily focus on applying the relevant security patches released by Qualcomm and device manufacturers. Organizations should ensure that all affected Android devices receive the security update released on June 5th, 2018, which includes fixes for the buffer overread condition in the wlan_hdd_cfg80211_vendor_scan() function. System administrators should also implement network monitoring to detect unusual wireless scan activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additional protective measures include implementing wireless network segmentation, disabling unnecessary wireless features, and maintaining strict access controls for wireless network configurations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in kernel-level code, particularly within device driver implementations. Security teams should also consider implementing runtime monitoring to detect anomalous memory access patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical security considerations required for embedded systems and mobile platforms, where kernel-level vulnerabilities can have far-reaching consequences for device security and user privacy.