CVE-2015-1538 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the SampleTable::setSampleToChunkParams function in SampleTable.cpp in libstagefright in Android before 5.1.1 LMY48I allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via crafted atoms in MP4 data that trigger an unchecked multiplication, aka internal bug 20139950, a related issue to CVE-2015-4496.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1538 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the Android multimedia framework's libstagefright library. This vulnerability specifically affects the SampleTable::setSampleToChunkParams function in SampleTable.cpp, which processes MP4 container data structures. The flaw occurs when the system handles crafted atoms within MP4 files, creating a scenario where unchecked multiplication operations can lead to buffer overflows and subsequent arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability was disclosed as internal bug 20139950 and is related to CVE-2015-4496, indicating a pattern of similar weaknesses in the multimedia processing pipeline. This issue impacts Android versions prior to 5.1.1 LMY48I, leaving millions of devices vulnerable to remote exploitation through malicious media files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the MP4 parsing mechanism. When libstagefright processes MP4 atoms containing crafted data, the SampleTable::setSampleToChunkParams function performs arithmetic operations without adequate overflow checking. The unchecked multiplication operation creates a condition where large integer values can wrap around to small values, resulting in insufficient memory allocation for subsequent buffer operations. This integer overflow directly maps to CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions that can lead to memory corruption. The flaw demonstrates a classic example of how seemingly benign parsing operations can become attack vectors when proper boundary checks are absent, particularly in multimedia frameworks that must handle untrusted input from external sources.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-1538 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise. Attackers can craft malicious MP4 files that, when processed by vulnerable Android devices, trigger the integer overflow condition. This allows for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution within the context of the media processing service, potentially enabling full device control. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the system level within libstagefright, which handles media playback across multiple applications including web browsers, email clients, and media players. The attack surface is extensive as any application that processes MP4 content can become a vector for exploitation, making this vulnerability a prime target for zero-day attacks. The remote nature of the exploit means that adversaries can deliver malicious payloads through various channels including email attachments, web downloads, or malicious websites.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-1538 must address both immediate patching requirements and long-term architectural improvements. The primary solution involves updating Android devices to version 5.1.1 LMY48I or later, which includes the necessary fixes to prevent the integer overflow condition. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management programs to ensure all affected devices receive timely updates. Additional defensive measures include deploying network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify and block suspicious MP4 content, implementing application whitelisting to restrict media processing to trusted sources, and configuring mobile device management solutions to enforce security policies. From a security architecture perspective, this vulnerability highlights the importance of implementing robust input validation and boundary checking mechanisms, particularly in multimedia processing libraries that handle untrusted data. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 for execution through system commands and T1203 for exploitation of software vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for layered security approaches that address both the immediate threat and broader attack surface management.