CVE-2019-14045 in Snapdragon Auto
Summary
by MITRE
Possible buffer overflow while processing clientlog and serverlog due to lack of validation of data received in logs in Snapdragon Auto, Snapdragon Consumer IOT, Snapdragon Mobile in APQ8096AU, QCS605, SDM439, SM8150, SXR1130
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/06/2020
This vulnerability represents a critical buffer overflow condition affecting multiple Qualcomm Snapdragon processor variants used in automotive and consumer IoT devices. The flaw manifests during the processing of clientlog and serverlog data structures, where insufficient input validation allows maliciously crafted log data to overwrite adjacent memory regions. The affected chipsets include APQ8096AU, QCS605, SDM439, SM8150, and SXR1130, indicating a widespread impact across Qualcomm's automotive and mobile platform portfolio. The vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking mechanisms within the log processing routines, creating an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled data can exceed allocated buffer boundaries. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though the specific implementation details suggest a more complex memory corruption scenario. The operational impact extends beyond simple denial of service to potentially enabling arbitrary code execution within the context of the affected processes. The vulnerability affects Snapdragon Auto platforms which are integral to vehicle infotainment systems, telematics units, and advanced driver assistance systems, making it particularly concerning for automotive cybersecurity. Additionally, the Snapdragon Consumer IOT line items indicate potential exposure in smart home devices, industrial sensors, and connected appliances that rely on these processors for secure communications.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to first gain the ability to inject or modify log data that will be processed by the affected system. This could occur through compromised network communications, physical device access, or supply chain attacks targeting the logging infrastructure. The lack of proper validation means that when log processing routines encounter data exceeding expected buffer sizes, memory corruption occurs at predictable offsets, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite critical program variables, return addresses, or function pointers. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter execution, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute malicious code within the processor's secure execution environment. The vulnerability's presence in automotive platforms particularly raises concerns about potential attacks targeting vehicle control systems through compromised logging mechanisms, as demonstrated by previous attacks on automotive networks such as those targeting the Uconnect system. The memory corruption pattern suggests that attackers could potentially leverage this condition to escalate privileges or redirect execution flow, though the exact exploitation vectors would depend on the specific memory layout and available mitigations within each affected platform.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability encompass multiple layers of defense given the broad impact across automotive and IoT ecosystems. Device manufacturers should implement immediate firmware updates that include proper bounds checking and input validation for log processing routines, following secure coding practices that align with OWASP Secure Coding Practices. The affected Snapdragon platforms require enhanced memory protection mechanisms including stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and data execution prevention features to make exploitation more difficult. Network segmentation and monitoring of log data flows should be implemented to detect anomalous log patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations using these platforms should conduct thorough security assessments of their logging infrastructure and implement automated monitoring for log data integrity. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure logging practices in embedded systems, particularly in automotive environments where security is paramount. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should include examination of logging mechanisms and input validation routines. The affected platforms should also implement proper access controls for log data to prevent unauthorized modification or injection of malicious content. Additionally, device manufacturers should establish robust supply chain security practices to prevent introduction of vulnerable code through third-party components or development tools. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for secure development practices in embedded systems and the importance of validating all external input data, particularly in safety-critical automotive applications where such vulnerabilities could have severe consequences.