CVE-2017-18156 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-18156, a use after free vulnerability in Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets affecting Snapdragon Automobile, Mobile, and Wear devices. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures.
A use after free vulnerability has been identified in Snapdragon Automobile, Snapdragon Mobile, and Snapdragon Wear devices, potentially affecting various Qualcomm chipsets.
Understanding CVE-2017-18156
This CVE involves a specific use after free scenario in Qualcomm chipsets when processing camera buffers within the camera driver.
What is CVE-2017-18156?
A use after free vulnerability occurs in Snapdragon Automobile, Snapdragon Mobile, and Snapdragon Wear devices running specific Qualcomm chipsets during camera buffer processing.
The Impact of CVE-2017-18156
This vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by exploiting the camera driver's buffer processing.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-18156
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The use after free vulnerability arises in Qualcomm chipsets MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9650, MSM8996AU, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 625, SD 820, SD 820A, SD 835, and SDX20 during camera buffer processing.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Products: Snapdragon Automobile, Snapdragon Mobile, Snapdragon Wear
- Vendor: Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
- Affected Versions: MDM9206, MDM9607, MDM9650, MSM8996AU, SD 210/SD 212/SD 205, SD 625, SD 820, SD 820A, SD 835, SDX20
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited by manipulating camera buffers within the camera driver, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution or service disruption.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-18156 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by Qualcomm promptly.
- Monitor vendor communications for updates and advisories.
- Implement network segmentation to limit exposure.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update firmware and software to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify weaknesses.
- Educate users on safe practices to prevent exploitation.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security bulletins and patches released by Qualcomm.
- Ensure timely installation of updates to address the vulnerability effectively.