CVE-2017-13256:Out-of-bounds write vulnerability in Android's Bluetooth SDP server allowing remote code execution

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CVE-2017-13256 is a critical vulnerability in Android's Bluetooth implementation, specifically in the Service Discovery Protocol (SDP) server component. The issue exists in the process_service_search_attr_req function of sdp_server.cc where an out-of-bounds write occurs due to insufficient bounds checking. This vulnerability affects multiple Android versions (5.1.1 through 8.1) and could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely on vulnerable devices without requiring user interaction or special privileges.

Overview

This vulnerability (CWE-787: Out-of-bounds Write) affects the Bluetooth stack in Android devices. The flaw exists in the Service Discovery Protocol (SDP) server implementation, which is responsible for handling service discovery requests from other Bluetooth devices. When processing service search attribute requests, the code fails to properly validate input boundaries, allowing an attacker to write data beyond allocated memory buffers.

An attacker within Bluetooth range of a vulnerable device can exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Bluetooth service. Since the Bluetooth service typically runs with elevated privileges, this could lead to complete device compromise. The attack doesn't require any user interaction or authentication, making it particularly dangerous.

Remediation

To address this vulnerability, users should:

  1. Update devices to the latest Android security patch level that includes fixes for this vulnerability (March 2018 security patch or later).
  2. If updates are not available for your device, consider disabling Bluetooth when not in use.
  3. Be cautious about enabling Bluetooth in public places where attackers might be present.
  4. Device manufacturers should ensure they've incorporated the Android security patches addressing this issue.
  5. Enterprise environments should enforce security policies requiring devices to have the latest security patches installed.

References

  1. Android Security Bulletin (March 2018): https://source.android.com/security/bulletin/2018-03-01
  2. SecurityFocus BID 103253: http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/103253
  3. CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write): https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/787.html
  4. Android Security Issue Tracker: A-68817966

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Manufacturing: Low
    Manufacturing
  2. Public Administration: Low
    Public Administration
  3. Educational Services: Low
    Educational Services
  4. Finance and Insurance: Low
    Finance and Insurance
  5. Transportation & Warehousing: Low
    Transportation & Warehousing
  6. Health Care & Social Assistance: Low
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  7. Information: Low
    Information
  8. Management of Companies & Enterprises: Low
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  9. Other Services (except Public Administration): Low
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  10. Accommodation & Food Services: Low
    Accommodation & Food Services
  11. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services: Low
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  12. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting: Low
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  13. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation: Low
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  14. Construction: Low
    Construction
  15. Mining: Low
    Mining
  16. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services: Low
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  17. Real Estate Rental & Leasing: Low
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  18. Retail Trade: Low
    Retail Trade
  19. Utilities: Low
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade: Low
    Wholesale Trade

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  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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