CVE-2017-11059 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2017-11059, a buffer overflow vulnerability in Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android, and all Android releases from CAF, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service.
Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android, and all Android releases from CAF may be vulnerable to a buffer overflow if multiple threads set the HMAC key during SHA operations.
Understanding CVE-2017-11059
A potential buffer overflow vulnerability affecting various Android platforms due to concurrent HMAC key setting during SHA operations.
What is CVE-2017-11059?
This CVE describes a scenario where setting the HMAC key by different threads simultaneously during SHA operations in Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android, and all Android releases from CAF could lead to a buffer overflow.
The Impact of CVE-2017-11059
The vulnerability could be exploited by attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code or crash the affected systems, leading to a denial of service (DoS) condition.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-11059
A buffer overflow vulnerability in Android platforms due to concurrent setting of the HMAC key during SHA operations.
Vulnerability Description
The issue arises when multiple threads attempt to set the HMAC key during SHA operations, potentially causing a buffer overflow.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Android for MSM
- Firefox OS for MSM
- QRD Android
- All Android releases from CAF
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by triggering the simultaneous setting of the HMAC key by multiple threads during SHA operations, leading to a buffer overflow.
Mitigation and Prevention
Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2017-11059 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches provided by the vendor promptly.
- Monitor vendor communications for updates and security advisories.
- Implement network-level controls to detect and block exploit attempts.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all software and firmware.
- Conduct security training for personnel to recognize and respond to potential threats.
- Employ defense-in-depth strategies to mitigate the impact of security vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Keep all affected systems up to date with the latest security patches.
- Follow best practices for secure coding and software development to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.