CVE-2018-5848 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In the function wmi_set_ie(), the length validation code does not handle unsigned integer overflow properly. As a result, a large value of the 'ie_len' argument can cause a buffer overflow in all Android releases from CAF (Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) using the Linux Kernel.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-5848 resides within the wmi_set_ie() function implementation in Android-based systems utilizing the Linux kernel. This flaw represents a critical buffer overflow condition that stems from inadequate handling of unsigned integer overflow during length validation processes. The vulnerability affects multiple Android variants including CAF (Android for MSM), Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android platforms, indicating its widespread presence across Qualcomm-based mobile devices. The core issue manifests when the 'ie_len' argument receives excessively large values that bypass proper validation checks, creating conditions where memory boundaries are exceeded.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the Internet Explorer length parameter within the WMI (Wireless Management Interface) framework. When unsigned integer overflow is not properly addressed in the validation logic, malicious inputs can cause the length parameter to wrap around to small values while the actual buffer allocation is based on the original large value. This creates a scenario where the system allocates insufficient memory for the intended operation, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-190 as an integer overflow/underflow condition, specifically involving unsigned integer overflow that results in buffer overflows.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to mobile device security as it allows attackers to potentially execute malicious code with elevated privileges within the kernel space. The impact extends beyond simple memory corruption to include potential system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor establishment. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability through specially crafted wireless management commands that would trigger the vulnerable code path during normal device operation or network connectivity events. The vulnerability's presence in multiple Android variants suggests that attackers could target a broad range of devices without requiring specific platform identification, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where device diversity is common.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-5848 should prioritize immediate patch deployment from device manufacturers and kernel maintainers to address the unsigned integer overflow handling in the wmi_set_ie() function. System administrators should implement monitoring for anomalous wireless management interface behavior and establish network-based intrusion detection rules to identify potential exploitation attempts. Device vendors must ensure proper unsigned integer overflow validation in all kernel modules handling wireless interface elements and implement robust input sanitization routines. Additionally, security researchers recommend applying the principle of least privilege to wireless management interfaces and implementing memory safety checks that prevent buffer overflows through proper boundary validation. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage highlights the need for comprehensive endpoint protection measures that can detect and prevent exploitation attempts through wireless management protocols.