CVE-2017-0306 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-0306, an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the NVIDIA GPU driver affecting Android Kernel-3.10. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
A security flaw in the NVIDIA GPU driver affecting Android Kernel-3.10 could allow a nearby malicious app to execute custom code within the kernel, posing a severe risk of device compromise.
Understanding CVE-2017-0306
What is CVE-2017-0306?
This CVE identifies an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the NVIDIA GPU driver that enables a local malicious application to run arbitrary code within the kernel, potentially leading to a complete device compromise.
The Impact of CVE-2017-0306
The vulnerability is rated as critical due to the possibility of a local permanent device compromise, which may require reinstallation of the operating system to restore the device's security.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-0306
Vulnerability Description
The flaw allows a nearby malicious app to exploit the NVIDIA GPU driver, executing custom code within the kernel, leading to a complete device compromise.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: Android
- Affected Version: Kernel-3.10
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability enables a local malicious application to execute arbitrary code within the kernel, potentially resulting in a full device compromise.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the NVIDIA GPU driver to the latest version available.
- Regularly monitor for security bulletins and patches from both NVIDIA and Android.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement strict app permission controls to prevent unauthorized access.
- Avoid downloading apps from untrusted sources to reduce the risk of exploitation.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by NVIDIA and Android to mitigate the vulnerability.