CVE-2018-3591 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-3591, a security vulnerability in Android devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear processors, allowing unauthorized memory access. Find out how to mitigate the risks and apply necessary security patches.
Android devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear processors were vulnerable to a security issue due to a default build configuration that allowed unauthorized memory access.
Understanding CVE-2018-3591
This CVE highlights a vulnerability in Android devices using specific Qualcomm processors that could be exploited to access memory locations.
What is CVE-2018-3591?
The vulnerability stemmed from a default build configuration in the device programmer of Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear processors, enabling unauthorized access to memory locations.
The Impact of CVE-2018-3591
The security flaw allowed unauthorized access to peek and poke commands for any memory location on the target device, potentially leading to data breaches or system compromise.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-3591
Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile and Snapdragon Wear processors were affected by this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The default build configuration in the device programmer allowed the SKIP_SECBOOT_CHECK_NOT_RECOMMENDED_BY_QUALCOMM flag, enabling unauthorized memory access.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Products: Snapdragon Mobile, Snapdragon Wear
- Versions: MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9635M, MDM9650, MDM9655, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 410/12, SD 425, SD 427, SD 430, SD 435, SD 450, SD 615/16/SD 415, SD 625, SD 650/52, SD 820, SD 835, SD 845, SDM630, SDM636, SDM660, Snapdragon_High_Med_2016
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability allowed unauthorized access to peek and poke commands for any memory location on the target device.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate action and long-term security practices are crucial to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2018-3591.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches and updates promptly to address the vulnerability.
- Monitor for any unusual activities on the affected devices.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update device firmware and software to prevent security vulnerabilities.
- Implement access controls and restrictions to limit unauthorized memory access.
Patching and Updates
- Install the security patch level of 2018-04-05 or later to fix the vulnerability in affected Qualcomm Snapdragon devices.