CVE-2008-0986 in Android SDK
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the BMP::readFromStream method in the libsgl.so library in Google Android SDK m3-rc37a and earlier, and m5-rc14, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted BMP file with a header containing a negative offset field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0986 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the Google Android SDK's libsgl.so library implementation. This security issue affects versions m3-rc37a and earlier, as well as m5-rc14, creating a significant attack surface for remote code execution. The flaw manifests specifically within the BMP::readFromStream method, which processes bitmap image files through the system's graphics library. When a maliciously crafted BMP file is processed, the library fails to properly validate the offset field in the file header, leading to unpredictable behavior in memory allocation and data handling operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the graphics processing pipeline. The BMP file format includes a header structure that specifies various offsets and dimensions for image data. In this case, when a negative value is present in the offset field, the integer overflow occurs during calculations that determine memory allocation sizes or buffer boundaries. This overflow results in memory corruption that can be leveraged by attackers to overwrite critical memory locations, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of how improper integer handling can lead to memory safety issues in system libraries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it affects the entire Android SDK ecosystem and potentially any application that relies on the affected libsgl.so library for graphics processing. Attackers can craft malicious BMP files that, when processed by affected Android applications, trigger the integer overflow condition and gain unauthorized code execution privileges. This capability allows for complete system compromise, data theft, or further exploitation of the device. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the device, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter malicious files through email attachments, web downloads, or other network-based delivery mechanisms. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which involves executing malicious code through compromised applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected Android SDK versions, with the implementation of proper integer overflow checks in the BMP file processing routines. System administrators and developers should ensure that all applications using the affected library are updated to versions that include proper input validation and bounds checking. The fix should implement explicit validation of offset fields within BMP headers, ensuring that negative values are rejected or properly handled through appropriate error conditions. Additionally, implementing sandboxing measures and input sanitization protocols can provide defense-in-depth protection against similar vulnerabilities. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any other potential integer overflow conditions within their graphics processing libraries, as this type of flaw often indicates broader issues in memory handling practices that require systematic review and remediation.