CVE-2018-5898 : Security Advisory and Response

Android releases from CAF, including Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android, are susceptible to an integer overflow vulnerability in the msm_pcm_adsp_stream_cmd_put() function. This issue arises when user-supplied data, known as "param_length," exceeds a specified limit. The vulnerability exists in versions before the security patch level of 2018-06-05.

Understanding CVE-2018-5898

This CVE affects Qualcomm's Android releases from CAF, potentially leading to an integer overflow to buffer overflow in audio.

What is CVE-2018-5898?

The vulnerability in CVE-2018-5898 involves an integer overflow in the msm_pcm_adsp_stream_cmd_put() function due to excessive user-supplied data, posing a risk of buffer overflow in audio components.

The Impact of CVE-2018-5898

The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by exploiting the buffer overflow in audio components.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-5898

Android releases from CAF, including Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android, are affected by this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The integer overflow vulnerability occurs in the msm_pcm_adsp_stream_cmd_put() function when user-supplied data exceeds a defined limit, potentially leading to a buffer overflow in audio.

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 can be exploited by providing excessive user data, triggering the integer overflow and subsequent buffer overflow in audio components.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2018-5898.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches and updates to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor vendor security bulletins for relevant patches and advisories.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and firmware to ensure the latest security enhancements.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Install the security patch released after 2018-06-05 to address the integer overflow vulnerability and prevent buffer overflow attacks.