CVE-2017-14873 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-14873, a vulnerability in Qualcomm Android products that may lead to kernel memory overwrites. Find out how to mitigate this security risk and protect your systems.
Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android, and all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel may be vulnerable to a kernel memory overwrite in the graphics driver function pp_pgc_get_config().
Understanding CVE-2017-14873
This CVE involves an improper input validation in the display, potentially leading to a kernel memory overwrite in certain Qualcomm products.
What is CVE-2017-14873?
The graphics driver function pp_pgc_get_config() in various Qualcomm products running Android may allow for a kernel memory overwrite, posing a security risk.
The Impact of CVE-2017-14873
The vulnerability could be exploited by attackers to overwrite kernel memory, potentially leading to system crashes, data corruption, or even remote code execution.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-14873
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability lies in the pp_pgc_get_config() graphics driver function, allowing for a kernel memory overwrite in Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android, and all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android
- Vendor: Qualcomm, Inc.
- Affected Versions: All Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability arises due to improper input validation in the display, enabling malicious actors to trigger a kernel memory overwrite.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-14873 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by Qualcomm promptly.
- Monitor vendor security bulletins for updates and advisories.
- Implement strict access controls to limit potential exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all software components.
- Conduct security assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities proactively.
- Educate users and IT staff on security best practices to prevent exploitation.
- Employ intrusion detection systems to monitor and detect suspicious activities.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security updates from Qualcomm and apply them as soon as they are available.
- Regularly check for firmware updates and apply them to mitigate known vulnerabilities.