CVE-2017-15845 : What You Need to Know

Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android, and all Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel are affected by a vulnerability that could lead to memory leaks or buffer overflows during WLAN cal data store operations.

Understanding CVE-2017-15845

This CVE identifies an issue related to an invalid input of firmware size from user space in specific Qualcomm products and Android releases.

What is CVE-2017-15845?

The vulnerability in Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android, and Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel can result in memory leaks or buffer overflows when a negative value for firmware size is provided from user space.

The Impact of CVE-2017-15845

The vulnerability could potentially allow attackers to exploit the WLAN cal data store operation, leading to memory leaks or buffer overflows, compromising system integrity and potentially enabling further attacks.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-15845

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue involves an integer underflow in WLAN due to an invalid input of firmware size from user space, which can trigger memory leaks or buffer overflows during WLAN cal data store operations.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products: Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android
Vendor: Qualcomm, Inc.
Versions: All Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by providing a negative value for firmware size from user space, triggering the memory leak or buffer overflow during WLAN cal data store operations.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-15845 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unusual WLAN cal data store operations that could indicate exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict input validation mechanisms to prevent invalid inputs triggering vulnerabilities.
Regularly update and patch systems to address known security issues and enhance overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security bulletins and updates from Qualcomm and Android to apply relevant patches promptly.