CVE-2018-11985 : What You Need to Know

Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android, based on CAF and using the Linux kernel, are affected by a potential vulnerability due to integer overflow when allocating heap with user-provided size.

Understanding CVE-2018-11985

This CVE involves a heap overflow vulnerability in various Android releases that could be exploited through integer overflow in the roundup to native pointer process.

What is CVE-2018-11985?

The vulnerability in Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android occurs during heap allocation with user-supplied size, leading to a risk of integer overflow in the roundup to native pointer process.

The Impact of CVE-2018-11985

The vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by triggering a heap overflow.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-11985

Android releases from CAF using the Linux kernel are susceptible to this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from allocating heap with a size provided by the user, posing a risk of integer overflow in the roundup to native pointer process.

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 through integer overflow in the process of rounding up to a native pointer.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Qualcomm or the relevant vendor promptly.
Monitor security bulletins and updates from the vendor for mitigation guidance.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software components to prevent security vulnerabilities.
Implement secure coding practices to mitigate risks of integer overflow vulnerabilities.
Conduct regular security assessments and audits to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
Employ security mechanisms such as address space layout randomization (ASLR) to enhance system security.
Consider implementing runtime protections to detect and prevent exploitation attempts.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by Qualcomm or the respective vendor.
Apply patches promptly to ensure the system is protected against known vulnerabilities.