CVE-2018-9505 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In mca_ccb_hdl_req of mca_cact.cc, there is a possible out of bounds read due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to remote information disclosure over Bluetooth with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Product: Android Versions: Android-7.0 Android-7.1.1 Android-7.1.2 Android-8.0 Android-8.1 Android-9.0 Android ID: A-110791536
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/29/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9505 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw within the Bluetooth implementation of Android operating systems. This issue resides in the mca_ccb_hdl_req function of the mca_cact.cc source file, where a fundamental bounds checking mechanism has been omitted. The flaw specifically affects multiple Android versions including 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0, 8.1, and 9.0, making it a widespread concern across a significant portion of the Android ecosystem. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as an Improper Validation of Array Index, which directly relates to the missing bounds check that allows unauthorized memory access patterns.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through Bluetooth communication channels without requiring any additional privileges or user interaction. This characteristic makes the flaw particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged remotely by attackers who do not need to physically access the target device or obtain elevated permissions. The absence of user interaction requirements significantly increases the attack surface and reduces the barriers for exploitation. The vulnerability specifically targets the Bluetooth Common Accessory Control (MCA) layer, which handles communication protocols for Bluetooth accessories and devices, making it a critical component in the Android security architecture.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk of remote information disclosure, where an attacker could potentially extract sensitive data from the device's memory. The out-of-bounds read allows for unauthorized access to memory regions that should remain protected, potentially exposing confidential information including user data, application secrets, or system-level information. The impact extends beyond simple data exposure as this vulnerability could serve as a stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks, potentially enabling privilege escalation or further system compromise. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework would fall under the T1046 technique for Network Service Scanning, as it exploits Bluetooth communication protocols to access system resources.
The mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying the relevant security patches provided by Google and device manufacturers. Android security updates typically address such issues through kernel-level fixes and Bluetooth stack modifications that implement proper bounds checking mechanisms. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of these patches across all affected Android devices, particularly those in enterprise environments where Bluetooth connectivity is prevalent. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing Bluetooth access controls and monitoring for unusual Bluetooth activity patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of comprehensive input validation in network communication protocols and highlights the need for regular security auditing of system components that handle external communications. Device manufacturers and security teams should also implement robust testing procedures that include memory safety checks and bounds validation to prevent similar issues in future software releases.