CVE-2020-11151 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-11151, a race condition vulnerability in Qualcomm Snapdragon processors leading to a use-after-free issue in video processing. Find out the impacted systems, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
A race condition in Qualcomm Snapdragon processors can lead to a use-after-free issue in video processing across various Snapdragon product lines.
Understanding CVE-2020-11151
What is CVE-2020-11151?
This CVE describes a race condition that occurs when calling user space ioctl from two different threads, resulting in a use-after-free issue in video processing on Qualcomm Snapdragon devices.
The Impact of CVE-2020-11151
The vulnerability can be exploited to potentially execute arbitrary code or crash the affected devices, leading to a denial of service (DoS) condition.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-11151
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises due to a race condition in the video processing component of Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, allowing an attacker to trigger a use-after-free issue.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Products: Snapdragon Auto, Compute, Connectivity, Industrial IOT, Mobile, Wearables
- Versions: PM3003A, PM6125, PM6150, and many more
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by invoking user space ioctl from two separate threads simultaneously, leading to the use-after-free issue in video processing.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches provided by Qualcomm to address the vulnerability promptly.
- Monitor Qualcomm's security bulletins for updates and advisories regarding this issue.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update firmware and software on Qualcomm Snapdragon devices to mitigate potential security risks.
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent race conditions and memory-related vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Install the latest security patches and updates released by Qualcomm to fix the vulnerability and enhance device security.