CVE-2018-5844 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Android releases from CAF by Qualcomm are affected by a Use After Free vulnerability in the video driver function set_output_buffers().

Understanding CVE-2018-5844

This CVE involves a scenario where binfo can still be accessed in the video driver function set_output_buffers() even after being freed due to a failure condition in Android releases from CAF.

What is CVE-2018-5844?

CVE-2018-5844 is a Use After Free vulnerability in the video driver function set_output_buffers() in Android releases from CAF, including Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android, utilizing the Linux Kernel.

The Impact of CVE-2018-5844

The vulnerability allows an attacker to potentially exploit the freed memory, leading to unauthorized access or execution of arbitrary code.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-5844

Vulnerability Description

In the video driver function set_output_buffers(), binfo can be accessed after being freed in a failure scenario in Android releases from CAF using the Linux Kernel.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, QRD Android
Vendor: Qualcomm, Inc.
Versions: All Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability occurs due to improper handling of memory in the video driver function, allowing unauthorized access to freed memory.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by Qualcomm promptly.
Monitor security bulletins for updates on this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and firmware to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent memory-related vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure all systems running affected versions are updated with the latest patches from Qualcomm.