CVE-2020-3640 in Snapdragon Compute
Summary
by MITRE
u'Resizing the usage table header before passing all the checks leads to the function exiting with a usage table in invalid state when a HLOS adversary calls the function with wrong input' in Snapdragon Compute, Snapdragon Consumer IOT, Snapdragon Mobile, Snapdragon Wired Infrastructure and Networking in Bitra, Kamorta, QCS404, QCS610, Rennell, Saipan, SC7180, SDX55, SM6150, SM7150, SM8250, SXR2130
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/13/2020
This vulnerability represents a critical buffer management flaw in Qualcomm's Snapdragon chipsets that affects multiple hardware platforms including Bitra, Kamorta, QCS404, QCS610, Rennell, Saipan, SC7180, SDX55, SM6150, SM7150, SM8250, and SXR2130. The issue stems from improper validation of usage table header resizing operations within the HLOS (Hardware Abstraction Layer Operating System) environment where adversaries can manipulate function parameters to trigger premature exits from critical functions while leaving the usage table in an inconsistent state. This vulnerability falls under CWE-129, Input Validation, and specifically relates to improper handling of buffer boundaries and state management during function execution. The flaw occurs when the function responsible for resizing usage table headers does not properly validate input parameters before proceeding with the resizing operation, allowing malicious actors to bypass validation checks and force an early exit condition. This creates a scenario where the usage table header structure remains in an invalid state, potentially leading to memory corruption or unpredictable behavior within the system's resource management subsystem. The operational impact is severe as this vulnerability can be exploited by adversaries with HLOS-level privileges to manipulate system resource allocation and potentially escalate privileges or cause system instability. The affected Snapdragon platforms span across compute, consumer IOT, mobile, and wired infrastructure networking domains, making this a widespread concern affecting numerous devices and systems. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1068, Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, and T1499, Endpoint Termination, as it could enable adversaries to manipulate system resources and potentially terminate processes. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the hardware abstraction layer where system-level operations are managed, providing attackers with potential access to critical system resources. The improper state management during header resizing operations creates a persistent vulnerability that could be exploited to corrupt system memory structures, leading to denial of service conditions or more severe security implications. Mitigation strategies should include input parameter validation at multiple layers, implementation of proper state checking mechanisms, and robust error handling procedures that prevent premature exits from critical functions. Additionally, runtime integrity checks and memory protection mechanisms should be implemented to detect and prevent exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability. System administrators should ensure that all affected Snapdragon platforms receive firmware updates that address the buffer management issues and implement proper access controls to limit HLOS-level privileges. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of comprehensive input validation and proper state management in embedded systems where hardware and software interactions can create complex security attack surfaces.