CVE-2018-9545 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In BTA_HdRegisterApp of bta_hd_api.cc, there is a possible out-of-bound write due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Product: Android. Versions: Android-9. Android ID: A-113111784
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/13/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9545 resides within the Bluetooth audio subsystem of Android operating systems, specifically in the BTA_HdRegisterApp function located in the bta_hd_api.cc source file. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that allows for local privilege escalation without requiring any additional execution privileges or user interaction for exploitation. The vulnerability manifests as a potential out-of-bounds write condition that occurs due to a missing bounds check during Bluetooth audio device registration processes.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the Bluetooth HID (Human Interface Device) profile implementation. When the system attempts to register Bluetooth audio applications through the BTA_HdRegisterApp function, it fails to properly validate array boundaries before writing data to memory locations. This missing bounds check creates an opportunity for malicious code to overwrite adjacent memory regions, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the system level within the Bluetooth audio framework, which typically runs with high privilege levels.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-9545 extends beyond simple local privilege escalation as it provides attackers with a pathway to gain root access on affected Android devices. Since no user interaction is required for exploitation, malicious applications or attackers with local access can automatically trigger this vulnerability without any additional social engineering or complex attack vectors. The flaw affects Android 9.0 (Pie) systems and represents a significant risk to device security, as it allows for complete system compromise through a single vulnerable function call. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) and could be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1068 (Exploitation for Privilege Escalation) and T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) for potential exploitation methods.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate system updates and patches from device manufacturers, as the flaw exists within core Android system components. Organizations should prioritize deployment of security patches to all affected Android 9.0 devices and conduct thorough security assessments of Bluetooth-related services. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and limiting Bluetooth functionality on critical systems can reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper bounds checking in system-level code and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of Bluetooth protocols within mobile operating systems. System administrators should also monitor for suspicious Bluetooth activity and implement device management policies that restrict Bluetooth functionality in sensitive environments.