CVE-2018-9450 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In avrc_proc_vendor_command of avrc_api.cc, there is a possible out of bounds write 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. Product: Android Versions: Android-6.0 Android-6.0.1 Android-7.0 Android-7.1.1 Android-7.1.2 Android-8.0 Android-8.1 Android ID: A-79541338.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9450 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the Bluetooth AVRCP (Audio Video Remote Control Profile) implementation of Android operating systems. This issue resides in the avrc_proc_vendor_command function located in the avrc_api.cc source file, where a fundamental bounds checking mechanism has been omitted during the processing of vendor-specific Bluetooth commands. The flaw specifically affects multiple Android versions including 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0, and 8.1, indicating a widespread impact across the Android ecosystem. The vulnerability stems from improper validation of input data received through Bluetooth connections, particularly when processing vendor command responses that are transmitted over the air. The absence of proper bounds checking allows an attacker to potentially manipulate the memory layout of the Bluetooth stack, creating conditions where arbitrary data can be written beyond the allocated buffer boundaries.
The exploitation of this vulnerability presents a severe security risk as it enables remote code execution without requiring any additional privileges or user interaction. This characteristic places the flaw in the ATT&CK framework under the T1068 technique category, specifically targeting local or remote privilege escalation through software exploitation. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array indices, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write conditions. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability by establishing a Bluetooth connection to a targeted device and sending specifically crafted vendor command packets that trigger the buffer overflow condition. The lack of user interaction requirements makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited in the background without the victim's knowledge or consent.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-9450 extends beyond simple remote code execution to potentially compromise the entire device security posture. When successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code within the Bluetooth stack context, which typically operates with elevated privileges. This could enable attackers to install malicious applications, modify system files, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors on affected devices. The vulnerability affects all Bluetooth-enabled Android devices within the affected versions, creating a substantial attack surface that could be leveraged for large-scale attacks. The flaw particularly impacts devices that frequently use Bluetooth connectivity, including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and automotive infotainment systems that rely on Bluetooth AVRCP for audio control functionality.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch deployment as provided by Google through Android Security Bulletins and regular system updates. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected Android devices to versions that contain the patched Bluetooth stack implementation. Network administrators should consider implementing Bluetooth access controls and monitoring for suspicious Bluetooth traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation and bounds checking in embedded systems and mobile operating system components. Security professionals should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of Bluetooth-enabled devices within their networks and implement network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors. Additionally, device manufacturers should ensure comprehensive testing of Bluetooth protocols and implement robust memory safety mechanisms to prevent similar issues in future implementations, aligning with industry best practices outlined in the OWASP Mobile Security Project and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.