CVE-2023-35654 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
In ctrl_roi of stmvl53l1_module.c, there is a possible out of bounds read due to an incorrect bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/31/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-35654 resides within the stmvl53l1_module.c source file, specifically in the ctrl_roi function implementation. This issue represents a classic out-of-bounds read condition that arises from insufficient validation of array indices during memory access operations. The flaw manifests when the system processes region of interest data structures, which are commonly used in sensor applications to define specific areas for data collection and processing. The incorrect bounds check fails to properly validate input parameters against the allocated memory boundaries, creating a scenario where memory locations outside the intended array scope can be accessed and read.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables local privilege escalation by allowing an attacker with system execution privileges to manipulate memory access patterns and potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated permissions. This represents a significant security risk as it bypasses normal access controls and could allow unauthorized modification of system components or data. The vulnerability's classification as requiring system execution privileges indicates that exploitation occurs at the kernel or system level, where the sensor driver operates with high-privilege access. The absence of user interaction requirements means the vulnerability can be exploited automatically without requiring physical presence or user deception, making it particularly dangerous in automated or embedded systems environments.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability maps directly to CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient bounds checking in array indexing operations. The flaw also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' and demonstrates how memory corruption vulnerabilities can be leveraged to gain elevated system privileges. The impact extends beyond simple data reading as the out-of-bounds access could potentially expose sensitive kernel memory regions, leading to information disclosure or even complete system compromise. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in IoT devices and embedded systems where sensor drivers like the stmvl53l1 module are critical components for device functionality and security.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-35654 affects systems utilizing STMicroelectronics VL53L1 time-of-flight sensors, particularly those running Linux-based operating systems with the affected kernel driver implementation. Devices incorporating these sensors include various smartphones, tablets, wearable devices, and industrial IoT applications where precise distance measurement capabilities are essential. The vulnerability's exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or denial of service conditions that would affect the reliability and security of connected devices. Organizations should prioritize patching and updating affected systems to prevent potential exploitation by threat actors who may target embedded devices for broader network infiltration or data theft operations.