CVE-2018-5837 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2018-5837, a vulnerability in Snapdragon (Automobile, Mobile, Wear) devices due to a flawed RNG impacting MAC address randomization. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices.
Snapdragon (Automobile, Mobile, Wear) versions IPQ8074, MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9640, MDM9650, MSM8996AU, QCA6574AU, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 425, SD 427, SD 430, SD 435, SD 450, SD 625, SD 820A, SD 835, SD 845, SD 850, SDA660, SDM429, SDM439, SDM630, SDM632, SDM636, SDM660, SDM710, Snapdragon_High_Med_2016 have a vulnerability related to flawed RNG affecting MAC address randomization.
Understanding CVE-2018-5837
This CVE involves a cryptographic issue in WLAN due to improper execution of MAC address randomization in Snapdragon devices.
What is CVE-2018-5837?
The flaw in the random number generator (RNG) in Snapdragon devices causes repeated output earlier than expected during MAC address randomization.
The Impact of CVE-2018-5837
The vulnerability could lead to compromised privacy and security as MAC address randomization is crucial for protecting user identities and data.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-5837
The technical aspects of this CVE include:
Vulnerability Description
The flawed RNG in Snapdragon devices results in improper MAC address randomization during probe requests.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Products: Snapdragon Automobile, Snapdragon Mobile, Snapdragon Wear
- Vendor: Qualcomm, Inc.
- Versions: IPQ8074, MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9640, MDM9650, MSM8996AU, QCA6574AU, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 425, SD 427, SD 430, SD 435, SD 450, SD 625, SD 820A, SD 835, SD 845, SD 850, SDA660, SDM429, SDM439, SDM630, SDM632, SDM636, SDM660, SDM710, Snapdragon_High_Med_2016
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability allows attackers to potentially track and identify users by exploiting the flawed RNG and the predictable output it generates.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2018-5837, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches and updates provided by Qualcomm.
- Implement additional security measures to mitigate the risk of privacy breaches.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor for security advisories and updates from Qualcomm.
- Educate users on the importance of device security and privacy protection.
Patching and Updates
- Keep devices up to date with the latest firmware and security patches.
- Follow best practices for WLAN security to enhance overall network protection.