CVE-2018-16986:CVE-2018-16986: A remote code execution (and potential denial of service) vulnerability in Texas Instruments BLE-STACK v2.2.1 for SimpleLink CC2640 and CC2650 devices allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code by sending a malformed Bluetooth Low Energy packet that overflows a buffer.

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Texas Instruments BLE-STACK version 2.2.1 used on SimpleLink CC2640 and CC2650 devices contains a vulnerability that can be exploited by remote attackers through malformed Bluetooth Low Energy packets. The crafted packet triggers a buffer overflow in the BLE-STACK, potentially enabling remote code execution or a denial of service. The vulnerability has been publicly disclosed, with multiple advisories and entries from TI, Cisco, CERT, and other security trackers, and has been assigned CVE-2018-16986.

Overview

This CVE concerns a buffer overflow flaw in TI’s BLE-STACK v2.2.1 implemented on SimpleLink CC2640/CC2650 devices, which can be exploited by a remote attacker via a malformed BLE packet to achieve arbitrary code execution. The issue is documented as a denial of service and remote code execution vulnerability and has been disclosed by TI and multiple third-party security advisories. The vulnerability highlights the risk of remote compromise for devices running the affected stack and emphasizes the need for applying vendor-provided fixes.

Remediation

  • Upgrade to a BLE-STACK version that contains the fix for this vulnerability (check TI’s official advisory and release notes and apply the recommended firmware/stack update for CC2640/CC2650 devices).
  • Apply the vendor advisories and security patches referenced by TI (e.g., Cisco advisory, CERT notes) and verify that all affected devices receive the updated stack.
  • After upgrading, reflash devices with the patched BLE-STACK and validate basic BLE functionality and firmware integrity.
  • If upgrading is not immediately possible, harden exposure by limiting BLE surface exposure where feasible (network segmentation, restricting devices that can communicate with the BLE stack, and monitoring for anomalous BLE traffic) and implement a process to monitor for indicators of compromise.
  • Establish a regression test plan to ensure no disruption to legitimate BLE operations post-update and maintain an asset inventory of devices with their BLE stacks and versions.

References

  • ArmIs BleedingBit. https://armis.com/bleedingbit/
  • TI E2E Forum: BLE/CC2640/CC2650 discussion. http://e2e.ti.com/support/wireless-connectivity/bluetooth/f/538/t/742827
  • SecurityTracker. 1042018. http://www.securitytracker.com/id/1042018
  • CERT Vulnerability Note VU#317277. https://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/317277
  • SecurityFocus BID 105812. http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/105812
  • Cisco Security Advisory: cisco-sa-20181101-ap. https://tools.cisco.com/security/center/content/CiscoSecurityAdvisory/cisco-sa-20181101-ap

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

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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