CVE-2015-1526 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
The media_server component in Android allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service via a crafted application.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1526 resides within the media_server component of Android operating systems, representing a significant security weakness that enables remote attackers to execute denial of service attacks through maliciously crafted applications. This flaw specifically targets the media server daemon responsible for processing multimedia content and managing media-related operations within the Android framework. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the media_server process, creating opportunities for attackers to exploit memory corruption issues that can lead to system instability and complete service disruption. The affected media_server component operates with elevated privileges and handles various multimedia file formats, making it an attractive target for adversaries seeking to compromise system availability.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a remote attacker crafts a specially designed application that triggers memory corruption within the media_server process. This typically involves sending malformed multimedia data or manipulating media file structures that the server processes without proper validation. The flaw allows attackers to cause the media_server daemon to crash or become unresponsive, effectively rendering the device's multimedia capabilities unavailable. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read condition, where the media_server component accesses memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries. This memory corruption can result in unpredictable behavior including system crashes, application hangs, or complete device reboot cycles, severely impacting user experience and system reliability.
From an operational perspective, the impact of CVE-2015-1526 extends beyond simple service disruption to encompass broader implications for device usability and system integrity. The denial of service condition affects core multimedia functionality including audio playback, video rendering, and media file management capabilities that users rely on daily. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to repeatedly crash the media server, creating persistent availability issues that may require device restarts to resolve. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where mobile devices serve critical business functions, as it can disrupt communication and productivity workflows. The attack vector requires only remote access to a vulnerable device, making it accessible to adversaries regardless of physical proximity or network security controls.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.001, which involves network denial of service attacks targeting system availability. Security professionals should recognize that this vulnerability represents a persistent threat that can be exploited repeatedly without requiring additional privileges or complex attack chains. Mitigation strategies include implementing robust input validation mechanisms within the media_server component, applying proper memory management practices to prevent buffer overflows, and deploying regular security updates from Android vendors. Organizations should prioritize patch management programs to ensure timely deployment of security fixes, as the vulnerability affects multiple Android versions and device manufacturers. Additionally, network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect unusual patterns of media server crashes or restarts that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and thorough security testing for system components handling user-provided data, particularly in mobile environments where multimedia processing is integral to device functionality and user experience.