CVE-2021-30331 in Snapdragon Auto
Summary
by MITRE • 04/01/2022
Possible buffer overflow due to improper data validation of external commands sent via DIAG interface in Snapdragon Auto, Snapdragon Compute, Snapdragon Connectivity, Snapdragon Consumer IOT, Snapdragon Industrial IOT, Snapdragon Mobile, Snapdragon Wearables
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2022
This vulnerability represents a critical buffer overflow condition within the diagnostic interface subsystem of multiple Qualcomm Snapdragon product lines. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation when processing external commands transmitted through the DIAG interface, which serves as a diagnostic communication channel for device configuration and troubleshooting. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Snapdragon automotive, mobile, and IoT products, indicating a widespread exposure across multiple device categories. The improper data validation allows malicious actors to craft specially formatted commands that can exceed the allocated buffer space, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the DIAG protocol handler. When external commands are received through the diagnostic interface, the system fails to properly validate the length and content of incoming data before processing. This allows an attacker to send oversized command payloads that overwrite adjacent memory locations, creating opportunities for stack corruption, heap corruption, or memory overwrite conditions. The vulnerability operates at the protocol level where diagnostic commands are interpreted, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through legitimate diagnostic interfaces that are often accessible during device maintenance or development phases. This aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which addresses heap-based buffer overflows.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system crashes or hangs, as it creates potential pathways for persistent compromise of affected devices. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code within the device's operational environment, potentially gaining root-level access to critical system functions. The exposure is particularly concerning in automotive applications where the DIAG interface might be accessible through vehicle diagnostic ports, and in IoT devices where remote diagnostic capabilities could be exploited. The vulnerability's presence across multiple Snapdragon product lines suggests that attackers could target various device types including automotive infotainment systems, mobile phones, wearable devices, and industrial IoT equipment, creating a substantial attack surface. This exploitation capability maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566.001 for spearphishing via social engineering.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation measures at the DIAG interface level, including strict bounds checking and length validation for all incoming commands. Device manufacturers should consider implementing firmware updates that enforce proper buffer management and memory protection mechanisms. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to restrict unauthorized access to diagnostic interfaces, particularly in automotive and industrial applications. Additionally, runtime protection mechanisms such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and data execution prevention should be deployed to reduce the exploitability of any remaining buffer overflow conditions. Regular security assessments of diagnostic interfaces and implementation of secure coding practices in the DIAG protocol handlers are essential for preventing similar vulnerabilities in future implementations. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of validating all external inputs and implementing robust memory management practices in embedded systems.