CVE-2018-9482 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 11/20/2024
In intr_data_copy_cb of btif_hd.cc, there is a possible out of bounds read due to an integer overflow. This could lead to local information disclosure in the Bluetooth service 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-2018-9482 resides within the Bluetooth stack implementation of Android systems, specifically in the btif_hd.cc source file where the intr_data_copy_cb function handles data copying operations. This flaw represents a critical security issue that demonstrates how improper integer handling can lead to memory corruption vulnerabilities. The vulnerability occurs when the system processes incoming Bluetooth HID (Human Interface Device) data, particularly during the copying of interrupt data from one memory buffer to another. The integer overflow condition arises when the system calculates buffer sizes or data lengths without proper validation, leading to a scenario where the calculated value exceeds the maximum representable value for the integer type used in the operation.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of integer arithmetic within the Bluetooth HID service implementation. When processing HID reports from Bluetooth devices, the system performs calculations to determine buffer sizes needed for data copying operations. An attacker can manipulate the input data to cause these calculations to overflow, resulting in a situation where the system attempts to read beyond the bounds of allocated memory regions. This out-of-bounds read condition allows for potential information disclosure, as the system may inadvertently expose sensitive data from adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and represents a direct violation of secure coding practices that require proper validation of arithmetic operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables local information disclosure within the Bluetooth service context without requiring any additional privileges or user interaction. The Bluetooth service typically runs with elevated privileges and has access to sensitive system information, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous. An attacker positioned locally within range of a vulnerable device can exploit this flaw to extract potentially sensitive information from the system memory, including cryptographic keys, session tokens, or other confidential data. The lack of user interaction requirements makes this vulnerability especially concerning as it can be exploited automatically without the need for social engineering or user deception tactics. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, though in this case the exploitation occurs through memory corruption rather than direct command execution.
The exploitation of CVE-2018-9482 demonstrates how seemingly minor programming errors in system-level components can create significant security risks. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and integer overflow protection in security-critical systems, particularly those handling network communications and device interactions. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management programs to address this vulnerability, as the fix typically involves proper bounds checking and integer overflow protection mechanisms. The vulnerability also underscores the necessity of code reviews and static analysis tools to identify similar patterns in other system components. Security professionals should monitor for similar integer overflow patterns in Bluetooth stack implementations and other low-level system services that handle external data inputs. The remediation approach typically involves modifying the integer calculation logic to prevent overflow conditions and implementing proper bounds checking before memory operations. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices in embedded systems and mobile platforms where Bluetooth connectivity is prevalent.