CVE-2018-5825

Vulnerability

A use-after-free vulnerability exists in the Qualcomm IPA (IP Accelerator) driver in the Linux kernel used by Android for MSM, Firefox OS for MSM, and QRD Android before the security patch level 2018-04-05 [1]. This condition can occur during certain driver operations, allowing access to freed memory [1]. Affected versions include all Android releases from CAF prior to the April 2018 security patch [1].

Exploitation

The attacker requires the ability to run a malicious application on the device [1]. By sending crafted inputs to the IPA driver, the attacker can trigger the use-after-free condition, which may lead to code execution within the kernel context [1]. No additional authentication beyond user-level application access is required [1].

Impact

Successful exploitation leads to privilege escalation from an application to the kernel level [1]. This can result in arbitrary code execution with kernel privileges, allowing full control of the device including data disclosure, modification, and persistent access [1].

Mitigation

The vulnerability is fixed in the Android security patch level 2018-04-05, as released in the April 2018 Pixel/Nexus Security Bulletin [1]. Users should apply the available security update from their device manufacturer. No workaround is detailed in the reference. If no update is available, limiting app installations and enabling verified boot may reduce risk.