CVE-2018-9418 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 12/03/2024
In handle_app_cur_val_response of dtif_rc.cc, there is a possible stack buffer overflow due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to remote code execution with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9418 represents a critical stack buffer overflow flaw within the dtif_rc.cc component of a software system, specifically in the handle_app_cur_val_response function. This issue arises from the absence of proper bounds checking mechanisms that should validate input data before being copied into fixed-size stack buffers. The flaw exists at the intersection of memory safety and input validation, where untrusted data enters the system without adequate sanitization measures. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited remotely without requiring any user interaction or additional privileges, making it a severe threat vector for attackers seeking to compromise systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from a classic buffer overflow condition where the function fails to verify that incoming data fits within predetermined buffer boundaries before copying operations occur. When malicious data exceeds the allocated stack buffer space, it overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting program execution flow and allowing for arbitrary code execution. This type of flaw falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. The lack of input validation in the handle_app_cur_val_response function creates an exploitable entry point where attackers can craft specially formatted data packets that trigger the overflow condition.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-9418 extends beyond simple data corruption, as it enables remote code execution capabilities that can fundamentally compromise system integrity and confidentiality. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The remote exploitation capability eliminates the need for physical access or user interaction, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in networked environments where systems may be exposed to untrusted network traffic. This type of vulnerability can be exploited across various network protocols and communication channels, depending on how the affected software handles incoming data streams, and represents a significant risk to organizations relying on systems that utilize the vulnerable component.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-9418 should focus on immediate code-level fixes that implement proper bounds checking and input validation mechanisms. Developers must ensure that all buffer operations include size validation before data copying occurs, utilizing safe string handling functions and memory management practices that prevent overflow conditions. The fix should involve implementing proper bounds checking in the handle_app_cur_val_response function to validate incoming data length against allocated buffer sizes. Organizations should also consider implementing network-level protections such as intrusion detection systems and firewall rules to monitor for suspicious traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security updates and patches should be applied immediately upon availability, as this vulnerability affects the fundamental security posture of systems that rely on the affected software component. The remediation process should include comprehensive code review procedures to identify and address similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities throughout the codebase, following secure coding guidelines and principles to prevent future occurrences of this class of vulnerability.