CVE-2021-35110 in Snapdragon Connectivity
Summary
by MITRE • 04/01/2022
Possible buffer overflow to improper validation of hash segment of file while allocating memory in Snapdragon Connectivity, Snapdragon Mobile
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-35110 represents a critical buffer overflow condition that occurs during the processing of hash segments within file allocation operations on Qualcomm Snapdragon connectivity and mobile platforms. This flaw exists in the memory management subsystem where insufficient validation occurs when handling hash segment data during memory allocation procedures. The vulnerability manifests when the system processes files containing specially crafted hash segments that exceed expected buffer boundaries, potentially leading to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the file processing pipeline of Snapdragon chipsets. When hash segments are parsed during file allocation, the system fails to properly verify the size and structure of these segments before allocating memory resources. This improper validation creates a scenario where an attacker can craft malicious files with oversized hash segments that overflow predetermined buffer limits. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-787, which addresses out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. The flaw operates at the intersection of memory allocation and input validation, creating a path for attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially execute malicious code.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents significant risks to mobile device security and connectivity integrity. Attackers could exploit this weakness by delivering malicious files through various attack vectors including email attachments, file downloads, or compromised applications. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially compromise the entire device security model, as the vulnerability affects core connectivity components that handle network communications and data processing. The exploitation could lead to persistent backdoor access, data exfiltration, or complete device compromise. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566 for credential harvesting, as successful exploitation would likely enable further lateral movement and privilege escalation within the affected device environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-35110 should focus on immediate firmware updates from device manufacturers, as Qualcomm has released patches addressing the memory validation issues. System administrators and users must ensure all Snapdragon-based devices receive the latest security updates, particularly those affecting connectivity and file processing modules. Additional protective measures include implementing network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file processing activities and deploying application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted files. The vulnerability highlights the importance of robust input validation and memory safety practices in embedded systems, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security testing of memory allocation routines and hash processing functions within mobile platform architectures.