CVE-2020-11307 in Snapdragon Auto
Summary
by MITRE • 07/13/2021
Buffer overflow in modem due to improper array index check before copying into it in Snapdragon Auto, Snapdragon Compute, Snapdragon Connectivity, Snapdragon Consumer IOT, Snapdragon Industrial IOT, Snapdragon Wearables
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/16/2021
This buffer overflow vulnerability exists within the modem firmware of various Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets, affecting automotive, connectivity, industrial, and wearable device ecosystems. The flaw stems from inadequate validation of array indices prior to memory copying operations, creating a condition where malicious input can exceed allocated buffer boundaries. The vulnerability impacts multiple Snapdragon product lines including Auto, Compute, Connectivity, Consumer IOT, Industrial IOT, and Wearables platforms, indicating a widespread exposure across Qualcomm's embedded systems portfolio. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient checking of array indices, making it a classic example of improper input validation in memory management operations. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that modems handle network communications and often operate with elevated privileges, potentially enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code within the modem's execution context.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it can be exploited to compromise the integrity of critical communication pathways within connected devices. Attackers could leverage this weakness to inject malicious code into the modem firmware, potentially gaining persistent access to device communication capabilities and undermining the security of connected vehicle systems, industrial control networks, or wearable health monitoring devices. The vulnerability's presence in automotive platforms raises particular concerns regarding vehicle cybersecurity, as modem compromises could affect telematics systems, over-the-air update mechanisms, and emergency communication services. From an adversarial perspective, this flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, where attackers might use buffer overflow exploits to establish persistent access or escalate privileges within modem environments.
Mitigation strategies should focus on firmware updates from device manufacturers and Qualcomm, as the vulnerability requires patching at the modem firmware level. Organizations should implement network monitoring to detect anomalous modem behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly in industrial and automotive environments where device integrity is critical. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be enhanced around devices utilizing affected Snapdragon chipsets to limit potential lateral movement if exploitation occurs. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation in embedded systems and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of modem firmware components, particularly in safety-critical environments. Device manufacturers should also consider implementing runtime protections and memory corruption detection mechanisms to provide additional defense-in-depth against similar vulnerabilities in future firmware releases.