CVE-2018-9344 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 11/19/2024
In several functions of DescramblerImpl.cpp, there is a possible use after free due to improper locking. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9344 resides within the DescramblerImpl.cpp component of a software system, specifically manifesting in multiple functions where improper locking mechanisms create conditions for use-after-free exploits. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that can be leveraged for local privilege escalation without requiring any additional execution privileges or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous in environments where local access is possible. The issue stems from inadequate synchronization controls that fail to properly protect shared resources during concurrent access scenarios.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which describes the use of memory after it has been freed, and CWE-362, which addresses concurrent execution use of a resource. The improper locking mechanisms in DescramblerImpl.cpp create race conditions where multiple threads or processes can access the same memory location simultaneously, leading to situations where memory is freed while still being referenced by other code paths. When the locking mechanisms fail to prevent concurrent access to sensitive data structures, the system may execute code that operates on memory that has already been deallocated, resulting in undefined behavior that can be exploited.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables local attackers to escalate their privileges without requiring additional permissions or user interaction, which significantly broadens the attack surface. The lack of user interaction requirements means that exploitation can occur automatically when the vulnerable system is running, potentially allowing malicious actors to gain elevated privileges simply by accessing the system locally. This makes the vulnerability particularly concerning for environments where local access is common or where users may have limited security awareness.
The exploitation of this vulnerability follows patterns consistent with the attack technique described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1068, which covers 'Local Privilege Escalation'. The use-after-free condition can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code with higher privileges, potentially allowing attackers to gain root or administrator access to the affected system. The vulnerability's nature makes it particularly attractive to attackers as it requires no additional attack vectors or user engagement, reducing the complexity of exploitation while maintaining significant impact potential.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-9344 should focus on implementing proper locking mechanisms and synchronization controls within the DescramblerImpl.cpp functions. The most effective approach involves ensuring that all shared resources are properly protected using mutexes, semaphores, or other appropriate synchronization primitives before any access occurs. Additionally, code reviews should be conducted to identify and correct all instances where improper locking may occur, and the software should be updated to include proper memory management practices that prevent the freeing of memory while still in use. System administrators should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous behavior patterns consistent with use-after-free exploitation attempts, particularly in systems where local privilege escalation is a concern.