CVE-2018-9453 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In avdt_msg_prs_cfg of avdt_msg.cc, there is a possible out of bounds read due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local information disclosure 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-78288378.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9453 resides within the Bluetooth audio streaming component of Android operating systems, specifically in the avdt_msg_prs_cfg function located in avdt_msg.cc file. This flaw represents a classic out-of-bounds read condition that occurs when processing Bluetooth audio configuration messages. The issue stems from insufficient input validation where the code fails to properly verify array boundaries before accessing memory locations, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted Bluetooth audio packets could trigger unauthorized memory access patterns.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the Bluetooth Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) protocol handling within the Android Bluetooth stack. When the system processes incoming audio configuration messages, it attempts to parse and validate various parameters without adequate boundary checks on array indices. This missing bounds checking allows an attacker to potentially manipulate the parsing logic by sending specially crafted Bluetooth audio configuration data that exceeds expected parameter lengths. The flaw manifests as an out-of-bounds memory read operation that can expose sensitive data from adjacent memory locations, potentially including system credentials, encryption keys, or other confidential information stored in memory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant despite requiring no user interaction or additional execution privileges for exploitation. The local information disclosure threat means that any device running affected Android versions could have its memory contents accessed by nearby Bluetooth devices without requiring physical access or user consent. This vulnerability affects a broad range of Android versions from 6.0 through 8.1, representing a substantial portion of the Android ecosystem. The lack of user interaction requirements makes this particularly concerning as it can be exploited automatically during normal Bluetooth operations, potentially during device pairing or audio streaming activities. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient bounds checking in input validation, and represents a clear violation of secure coding practices that should prevent such memory access violations.
Security implications extend beyond simple information disclosure to potential system compromise through information leakage that could aid in subsequent attacks. The exposed memory contents might contain cryptographic keys, session tokens, or other sensitive data that could be leveraged by attackers for privilege escalation or further exploitation. Organizations and individuals using affected Android devices face potential risks to their privacy and security, particularly in environments where Bluetooth connectivity is frequently used. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation and memory safety practices in mobile operating systems, aligning with ATT&CK framework techniques related to credential access and information gathering through system exploitation. Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate system updates and patches from Google, along with network segmentation and Bluetooth access controls to limit exposure. The vulnerability also highlights the critical need for comprehensive security testing of system-level components and proper implementation of defensive programming practices to prevent such memory safety issues from reaching production environments.
This vulnerability represents a fundamental flaw in Android's Bluetooth stack implementation that could be exploited by attackers with minimal technical expertise. The absence of user interaction requirements makes it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered during normal device operations without any warning or user awareness. The impact extends to all affected Android versions, making it a critical security concern for device manufacturers and end users alike. The flaw underscores the importance of proper bounds checking and input validation in system-level code, particularly in components handling external communication protocols. Security professionals should prioritize patching affected systems and implementing additional monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the complex security challenges inherent in mobile operating systems where multiple interconnected components must maintain memory safety and input validation integrity.