CVE-2015-1537 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in IHDCP.cpp in the media_server component in Android allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted application.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1537 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the media_server component of Android operating systems, specifically within the IHDCP.cpp file. This issue arises from improper input validation and handling of integer values during media processing operations, creating a potential pathway for remote code execution attacks. The media_server process serves as a core system component responsible for handling multimedia content and streaming operations, making it a prime target for exploitation. When a malicious application crafts specific input data that triggers the integer overflow condition, it can manipulate the program's memory management and execution flow. The vulnerability stems from the lack of proper bounds checking when processing HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) related data structures, which are essential for protecting digital media content during transmission. This flaw exists in multiple Android versions and affects devices that utilize the media_server service for handling multimedia processing tasks.
The technical exploitation of CVE-2015-1537 occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious application that sends specially formatted data to the media_server process through the HDCP processing subsystem. The integer overflow manifests when the system attempts to calculate buffer sizes or array indices using values that exceed the maximum representable integer, causing the value to wrap around to a much smaller number. This overflow condition can lead to buffer underflows or overflows in memory allocations, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite critical program memory locations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and falls under the broader category of memory corruption vulnerabilities that are commonly exploited in mobile environments. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the media_server process, which typically runs with elevated permissions to handle system-level multimedia operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a potential foothold for further system compromise within Android devices. Since the media_server component operates with high privileges and has access to various system resources, successful exploitation could enable attackers to access sensitive data, modify system files, or establish persistent backdoors. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries do not require physical access to devices or user interaction to trigger the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where users frequently download applications from untrusted sources. This vulnerability affects a wide range of Android devices and versions, including those running Android 4.4 through Android 5.1, creating a significant attack surface across the mobile ecosystem. The exploitation process typically involves crafting a malicious media file or application that, when processed by the vulnerable media_server, triggers the integer overflow condition.
Security mitigations for CVE-2015-1537 primarily involve applying official Android security patches released by Google, which address the integer overflow condition through proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms. System administrators and device manufacturers should prioritize immediate deployment of these patches across affected devices to prevent exploitation. Additional defensive measures include implementing application sandboxing policies that restrict media processing capabilities, monitoring media_server process behavior for anomalous memory allocation patterns, and deploying network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can automatically enforce security updates and monitor for vulnerable applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in system components that handle external data, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059 for execution through command and scripting interpreter, where attackers leverage system processes to execute malicious code. Regular security assessments and code reviews focusing on integer handling and memory management practices should be conducted to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future implementations.