CVE-2018-5909 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In all android releases(Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android) from CAF using the linux kernel, buffer overflow occur may occur in display handlers due to lack of checking in buffer size before copying into it and will lead to memory corruption.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-5909 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw affecting multiple Android variants including MSM-based Android releases, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android systems that utilize the Linux kernel. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within display handler components where the system fails to properly verify buffer sizes before executing memory copy operations. The vulnerability manifests specifically within the graphics processing subsystem where display-related data is handled, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit memory corruption vulnerabilities through crafted inputs.
From a technical perspective, this buffer overflow occurs due to insufficient bounds checking mechanisms in the kernel-level display drivers that process graphical content. The flaw allows for arbitrary code execution when attacker-controlled data exceeds the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it exists within the core kernel components that handle display processing, making it accessible through various attack vectors including malicious applications or compromised content that triggers display rendering operations. The lack of proper input validation creates a condition where the system attempts to write data beyond the allocated memory space, resulting in memory corruption that can be leveraged for privilege escalation or system instability.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-5909 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides adversaries with potential pathways to achieve persistent system compromise. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, potentially enabling full system takeover, data exfiltration, or installation of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects a broad range of devices including smartphones, tablets, and embedded systems that rely on Qualcomm MSM processors and the associated Linux kernel implementations. The exploitation of this flaw could lead to widespread security incidents across various mobile platforms and IoT devices that utilize the affected kernel components. The vulnerability's presence in multiple Android variants and operating systems creates a significant attack surface that requires immediate remediation across affected deployments.
Security mitigations for CVE-2018-5909 should focus on implementing proper input validation and bounds checking within the display handler components of the kernel. System administrators and device manufacturers must apply the latest security patches and kernel updates that address the buffer overflow conditions through proper buffer size verification before memory copy operations. The implementation of address space layout randomization, stack canaries, and other exploit mitigation techniques can help reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, monitoring and logging of display-related system calls can help detect anomalous behavior that may indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and corresponds to techniques documented in the ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation and code execution tactics, emphasizing the need for comprehensive defensive measures including regular security assessments and vulnerability management processes.