CVE-2017-18650 : What You Need to Know

A problem has been found on Samsung smartphones running N(7.x) software. When a wpa_supplicant.conf file with incorrect formatting is read, it triggers a WifiStateMachine IllegalArgumentException and causes the device to restart. This issue is identified as SVE-2017-9828 by Samsung (October 2017).

Understanding CVE-2017-18650

An issue affecting Samsung smartphones running N(7.x) software that leads to device restarts.

What is CVE-2017-18650?

This CVE identifies a vulnerability on Samsung smartphones where reading a wpa_supplicant.conf file with incorrect formatting triggers a WifiStateMachine IllegalArgumentException, resulting in device restarts.

The Impact of CVE-2017-18650

Device instability and potential disruption of service on affected Samsung smartphones.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-18650

A vulnerability that causes device restarts due to malformed wpa_supplicant.conf files.

Vulnerability Description

The issue triggers a WifiStateMachine IllegalArgumentException when encountering incorrectly formatted wpa_supplicant.conf files, leading to device restarts.

Affected Systems and Versions

Samsung smartphones running N(7.x) software.

Exploitation Mechanism

By providing a wpa_supplicant.conf file with incorrect formatting, an attacker can exploit this vulnerability to cause device restarts.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2017-18650 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Regularly check for security updates from Samsung.
Avoid connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong password protection on devices.
Educate users on safe Wi-Fi network usage.

Patching and Updates

Apply all available security patches and updates provided by Samsung to mitigate the vulnerability.