CVE-2018-11281 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android by Qualcomm are affected by a Use After Free vulnerability due to insufficient validation of header entries when using the IPA_IOC_MDFY_RT_RULE IPA IOCTL.

Understanding CVE-2018-11281

This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in various Android releases from CAF that utilize the Linux kernel, potentially leading to a Use After Free condition.

What is CVE-2018-11281?

CVE-2018-11281 is a security vulnerability found in Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android devices. It arises from a lack of validation for header entries before utilizing the IPA_IOC_MDFY_RT_RULE IPA IOCTL, which can result in a Use After Free scenario.

The Impact of CVE-2018-11281

The vulnerability allows attackers to trigger a Use After Free condition by invoking the IPA_IOC_MDFY_RT_RULE IOCTL for previously deleted header entries, potentially leading to system compromise or unauthorized access.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-11281

This section provides in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue stems from the lack of validation for header entries before using the IPA_IOC_MDFY_RT_RULE IPA IOCTL, which can cause a Use After Free condition if the IOCTL is called for deleted header entries.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products: 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 calling the IPA_IOC_MDFY_RT_RULE IOCTL for header entries that have been previously deleted, triggering the Use After Free condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-11281 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Qualcomm or relevant vendors promptly.
Monitor official sources for updates and security advisories related to the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software components, including the Linux kernel and Android releases.
Implement proper input validation and error-checking mechanisms in the code to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all affected systems are updated with the latest patches and fixes released by Qualcomm or CAF.