CVE-2022-40537 in APQ8009
Summary
by MITRE • 03/10/2023
Memory corruption in Bluetooth HOST while processing the AVRC_PDU_GET_PLAYER_APP_VALUE_TEXT AVRCP response.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-40537 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Bluetooth host implementations that process Advanced Audio Distribution Profile AVRCP (Audio Video Remote Control Profile) responses. This issue specifically manifests when the Bluetooth host component handles the AVRC_PDU_GET_PLAYER_APP_VALUE_TEXT PDU, which is part of the AVRCP protocol used for controlling audio and video playback across Bluetooth devices. The flaw exists in the way the host processes and interprets response data from AVRCP commands, creating potential avenues for arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the Bluetooth host stack's handling of AVRCP response packets. When processing the GET_PLAYER_APP_VALUE_TEXT PDU, the system fails to properly validate buffer boundaries or handle malformed response data, leading to potential buffer overflows or memory corruption scenarios. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. The flaw essentially allows an attacker to manipulate memory locations through crafted AVRCP responses, potentially leading to privilege escalation or denial of service conditions.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-40537 extends beyond simple system crashes, as it can enable sophisticated attack vectors that leverage the Bluetooth host's processing of audio control commands. An attacker positioned within range of a vulnerable device could exploit this vulnerability by establishing a Bluetooth connection and sending specially crafted AVRCP responses that trigger the memory corruption. This attack could result in complete system compromise, allowing for unauthorized access to sensitive data, persistent backdoor installation, or complete device takeover. The vulnerability affects devices that support Bluetooth AVRCP profiles, including smartphones, tablets, automotive infotainment systems, and wireless audio equipment, making it particularly concerning for IoT and mobile device ecosystems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected Bluetooth host implementations, with system administrators prioritizing updates from device manufacturers and Bluetooth protocol implementers. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and Bluetooth access controls to limit exposure, particularly in enterprise environments where Bluetooth devices may be targeted. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code through the corrupted memory state. Additional protective measures include enabling Bluetooth security features such as secure connections, implementing proper access controls for Bluetooth services, and conducting regular security assessments of Bluetooth-enabled devices within the network infrastructure.