CVE-2017-18139 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Android devices with unpatched security levels are vulnerable to a buffer overflow issue affecting Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear models.

Understanding CVE-2017-18139

This CVE identifies a potential buffer overflow vulnerability in specific Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear models.

What is CVE-2017-18139?

A buffer overflow vulnerability exists in Android devices with outdated security patches, impacting Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear models during IMS call initiation.

The Impact of CVE-2017-18139

The vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or crash the device, posing a risk to data confidentiality and system integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-18139

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves a buffer overflow issue in Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear models when initiating an IMS call.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products: Snapdragon Mobile, Snapdragon Wear
Vendor: Qualcomm, Inc.
Versions: MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9635M, MDM9640, MDM9645, MDM9650, MDM9655, MSM8909W, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 400, SD 410/12, SD 425, SD 430, SD 450, SD 615/16/SD 415, SD 617, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 808, SD 810, SD 820, SD 835, SD 845, SD 850

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to trigger a buffer overflow during IMS call initiation, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-18139 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest security patches and updates to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor vendor advisories for patch releases and apply them promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update device firmware and software to address security vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential exploits.

Patching and Updates

Ensure all Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear devices are updated with the security patch level 2018-04-05 or later to address the vulnerability.