CVE-2018-9564 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In llcp_util_parse_link_params of llcp_util.cc, there is a possible out-of-bound read due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local information disclosure with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-7.0 Android-7.1.1 Android-7.1.2 Android-8.0 Android-8.1 Android-9Android ID: A-114238578
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/06/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9564 resides within the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) implementation of Android operating systems, specifically affecting versions 7.0 through 9.0. This issue manifests in the llcp_util_parse_link_params function located in the llcp_util.cc source file, which is part of the Bluetooth stack responsible for handling Logical Link Control and Adaptation Protocol link parameters. The flaw represents a classic out-of-bounds read condition that occurs when processing Bluetooth connection parameters, making it particularly concerning given the widespread use of BLE functionality across Android devices. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as an Improper Validation of Array Index, which directly relates to the missing bounds checking mechanism that should prevent access beyond allocated memory boundaries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires a local attacker with minimal privileges to craft malicious Bluetooth link parameters that trigger the out-of-bounds read condition. While no additional execution privileges are required for the exploitation process itself, the attacker must have the ability to establish a Bluetooth connection with the target device and manipulate the link parameter negotiation process. This typically involves user interaction as the target device must accept the Bluetooth connection attempt and proceed through the link parameter negotiation phase where the vulnerable code path is executed. The attack vector leverages the Bluetooth protocol stack's handling of connection parameters, where the llcp_util_parse_link_params function fails to validate the length or content of incoming parameter data before attempting to read from memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can potentially expose sensitive data stored in memory adjacent to the affected buffer. Attackers could extract information such as cryptographic keys, session tokens, or other confidential data that resides in memory locations immediately following the vulnerable array structure. The severity is particularly concerning in mobile environments where Android devices frequently handle sensitive personal and corporate information through Bluetooth connections. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Windows Scripting and T1059.008 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, though adapted for mobile Bluetooth contexts where the exploitation involves manipulating connection parameters rather than traditional command execution. The information disclosure aspect of this vulnerability can serve as a stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks, potentially enabling further exploitation of other system components through the exposed memory contents.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-9564 primarily involve applying the security patches released by Google as part of their regular Android security updates. Organizations should prioritize updating affected Android devices to versions that include the fix for this vulnerability, which typically involves implementing proper bounds checking in the llcp_util_parse_link_params function. System administrators should also consider implementing Bluetooth access controls and monitoring for unusual Bluetooth connection patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation in system components that handle external data, particularly in wireless communication protocols where attackers can manipulate parameters during connection establishment. Network security teams should monitor for potential Bluetooth-based attacks targeting this specific vulnerability, as the exploitation typically requires the target device to actively participate in Bluetooth communication and accept the malicious connection parameters.