CVE-2018-5897 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
While reading the data from buffer in dci_process_ctrl_status() there can be buffer over-read problem if the len is not checked correctly 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 • 02/26/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-5897 represents a critical buffer over-read condition affecting Android systems utilizing Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets and Linux kernel implementations. This flaw exists within the dci_process_ctrl_status() function where data is processed from a buffer without proper length validation, creating potential exploitation vectors for malicious actors. The affected platforms include Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android releases, with the vulnerability persisting across multiple security patch levels prior to June 5th, 2018. The issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly verify buffer boundaries before data processing operations occur.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions in software implementations. This buffer over-read vulnerability operates through improper bounds checking within the dci_process_ctrl_status() function, allowing attackers to potentially access memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries. The flaw manifests when the system processes control status data without verifying that the data length parameter remains within acceptable limits, creating opportunities for information disclosure or system instability. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects core system components that handle device control status information, potentially exposing sensitive device state data or enabling further exploitation chains.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents significant risks to affected Android devices running Qualcomm-based systems, as it could enable attackers to extract confidential information from memory regions beyond the intended buffer. The impact extends beyond simple data leakage, potentially allowing adversaries to gain insights into system memory layout, device configuration details, or other sensitive operational data. Attackers could leverage this condition to build more sophisticated exploitation techniques or to gather intelligence about the target device's configuration. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple Android variants and security patch levels indicates a systemic issue within the Qualcomm integration approach for these platforms, making it a widespread concern for organizations deploying affected devices.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-5897 require immediate implementation of security patches provided by device manufacturers and the Android security team. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected devices to security patch level 2018-06-05 or later, ensuring that the buffer length validation mechanisms are properly enforced within the dci_process_ctrl_status() function. System administrators should conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all affected devices and implement monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, network security teams should consider implementing intrusion detection signatures specifically targeting this vulnerability and establish protocols for monitoring anomalous data access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The remediation process should include thorough testing of patches to ensure compatibility with existing device functionality while addressing the underlying buffer over-read condition.