CVE-2017-18144 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Android devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear processors are vulnerable to a Use After Free issue related to WPA supplicant command send failures.

Understanding CVE-2017-18144

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear processors that can lead to a Use After Free condition.

What is CVE-2017-18144?

The vulnerability in Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear processors can cause a disconnection from the WPA supplicant due to incorrect updating of the local pointer, leading to a Use After Free condition.

The Impact of CVE-2017-18144

The vulnerability can result in a condition where the WPA supplicant command transmission fails, triggering a Use After Free scenario.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-18144

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE-2017-18144 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the retransmission of WPA supplicant command send failures, causing a disconnection from the WPA supplicant with incorrect updating of the local pointer.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products: Snapdragon Mobile, Snapdragon Wear
Versions: MSM8909W, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 450, SD 615/16/SD 415, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 820, SD 835, SD 845

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability occurs when processing the retransmission of WPA supplicant command send failures, leading to a Use After Free condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-18144, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches promptly.
Monitor vendor communications for updates.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update device firmware.
Implement network security measures.

Patching and Updates

Install security patches from Qualcomm and device manufacturers.