CVE-2017-11015 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2017-11015, a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability affecting Android platforms by Qualcomm. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
Android platforms like Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android, and all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel are affected by a buffer overflow vulnerability due to an incorrect value assignment. This vulnerability could be exploited through a stack-based buffer overflow in WLAN.
Understanding CVE-2017-11015
This CVE entry describes a specific vulnerability affecting Qualcomm's Android platforms, potentially leading to a buffer overflow issue.
What is CVE-2017-11015?
CVE-2017-11015 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in WLAN on various Android platforms, allowing challenge text exceeding 128 bytes, which the driver cannot handle properly.
The Impact of CVE-2017-11015
The incorrect value assignment in SIR_MAC_AUTH_CHALLENGE_LENGTH can result in a buffer overflow, potentially exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code or crash the system.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-11015
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The issue arises from the frame parser allowing challenge text up to 253 bytes, conflicting with the driver's handling capability limited to 128 bytes.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android
- Vendor: Qualcomm, Inc.
- Versions: All Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting challenge text exceeding 128 bytes, triggering a buffer overflow in WLAN.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-11015, follow these mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches provided by Qualcomm or the respective vendors promptly.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities indicating exploitation attempts.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all software components to prevent known vulnerabilities.
- Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the attack surface.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security bulletins and updates from Qualcomm and relevant vendors.
- Test patches in a controlled environment before deploying them to production systems.