CVE-2018-9593 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In llcp_dlc_proc_i_pdu of llcp_dlc.cc in Android-7.0, Android-7.1.1, Android-7.1.2, Android-8.0, Android-8.1 and Android-9, there is a possible out of bounds read due to an incorrect bounds check. This could lead to local information disclosure over NFC with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Android ID: A-116722267.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/04/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9593 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw within the NFC (Near Field Communication) implementation of Android operating systems. This issue exists in the llcp_dlc_proc_i_pdu function located in the llcp_dlc.cc source file, affecting multiple Android versions including 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0, 8.1, and 9. The flaw stems from an incorrect bounds check that fails to properly validate input data during NFC communication processing. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as an insufficient bounds check, which directly enables malicious actors to access memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries. This particular vulnerability demonstrates how NFC protocol implementations can expose sensitive system information through seemingly benign communication channels.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs during NFC data exchange operations when the system processes I-PDU (Information Protocol Data Unit) frames. The incorrect bounds check allows attackers to manipulate input parameters in such a way that the system reads memory beyond the allocated buffer space. This out-of-bounds read can potentially expose sensitive information such as kernel memory contents, cryptographic keys, or other confidential data stored in adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability does not require any special privileges or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by any application with NFC access permissions. The attack vector operates entirely within the NFC subsystem without requiring additional execution privileges, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through system commands and T1046 for network service scanning.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the leaked memory contents could contain sensitive data that might aid in further exploitation attempts. Attackers could potentially use the leaked information to bypass security mechanisms, understand system internals, or craft more sophisticated attacks against the device. The vulnerability affects the core NFC communication stack, meaning any NFC-based application or service could serve as an attack vector. This includes legitimate NFC functionality such as payment processing, device pairing, and data transfer applications that rely on the LLCP (Logical Link Control Protocol) layer for communication. The lack of user interaction requirement makes this vulnerability particularly concerning for mobile devices where NFC is frequently enabled and used. Security researchers have noted that such information disclosure vulnerabilities can serve as stepping stones for more severe attacks, including privilege escalation or remote code execution in subsequent exploitation phases.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-9593 primarily focus on applying the relevant security patches provided by Google through their regular security updates. Organizations should ensure all affected Android devices receive immediate patch updates, particularly those running versions 7.0 through 9.0. System administrators should implement strict NFC access controls and monitor applications with NFC permissions to prevent unauthorized exploitation. The vulnerability highlights the importance of robust input validation in network protocol implementations and emphasizes the need for comprehensive code review processes. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual NFC communication patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, developers should adopt secure coding practices that include thorough bounds checking and memory validation to prevent similar issues in future implementations, aligning with industry standards such as the OWASP Secure Coding Practices and NIST guidelines for secure software development.