CVE-2015-2003 in PJSUA2 SDK
Summary
by MITRE
The PJSIP PJSUA2 SDK before SVN Changeset 51322 for Android might allow attackers to execute arbitrary code by leveraging a finalize method in a Serializable class that improperly passes an attacker-controlled pointer to a native function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-2003 affects the PJSIP PJSUA2 SDK version prior to SVN Changeset 51322 on Android platforms, representing a critical security flaw that could enable remote code execution. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of serialization within the SDK's Java components, specifically targeting a finalize method in a Serializable class that interfaces with native code functions. The flaw exists in the Android implementation of the PJSIP library, which is widely used for VoIP communication applications, making it particularly concerning given the prevalence of these applications in mobile environments.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper management of object lifecycle and memory handling during the serialization process. When a Serializable class containing a finalize method is deserialized, the finalize method executes and inadvertently passes an attacker-controlled pointer to a native function within the PJSIP library. This creates a classic use-after-free or buffer overflow scenario where malicious input can manipulate the execution flow of native code. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-457 as "Use of Uninitialized Variable" and also relates to CWE-119 as "Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer." The flaw demonstrates a failure in proper input validation and memory management practices, particularly when transitioning between managed Java code and native C/C++ code within the Android environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. This means that any application utilizing the vulnerable PJSIP PJSUA2 SDK could be compromised, potentially leading to complete system compromise if the application has elevated permissions. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability through maliciously crafted serialized data sent to applications using the SDK, making it particularly dangerous in scenarios where applications receive untrusted input from network sources. The vulnerability affects not only individual applications but also the broader ecosystem of VoIP applications that depend on PJSIP, creating a widespread security risk across mobile communication platforms.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention from developers and system administrators. The primary solution involves upgrading to SVN Changeset 51322 or later versions of the PJSIP PJSUA2 SDK, which contain fixes addressing the improper serialization handling. Additionally, developers should implement strict input validation and avoid using Serializable classes that interact with native code, particularly in contexts where untrusted data might be processed. Security measures should include disabling unnecessary serialization capabilities within the application, implementing proper memory management practices, and conducting thorough code reviews focusing on the interaction between Java and native code components. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime monitoring and anomaly detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python" and T1059.006 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" in scenarios where attackers might leverage the executed code for further system compromise, though the initial exploitation occurs through the serialization mechanism rather than direct command execution.