CVE-2015-3824 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
The MPEG4Extractor::parseChunk function in MPEG4Extractor.cpp in libstagefright in Android before 5.1.1 LMY48I does not properly restrict size addition, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (integer overflow and memory corruption) via a crafted MPEG-4 tx3g atom, aka internal bug 20923261.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-3824 resides within the libstagefright media framework component of Android operating systems prior to version 5.1.1 LMY48I. This flaw specifically affects the MPEG4Extractor::parseChunk function located in the MPEG4Extractor.cpp source file, representing a critical security weakness that has significant implications for mobile device security. The issue manifests as an integer overflow condition that occurs during size addition operations when processing media files, particularly those containing crafted MPEG-4 tx3g atoms.
The technical flaw stems from improper input validation and size calculation handling within the media parsing logic. When the MPEG4Extractor processes a maliciously crafted tx3g atom within an MPEG-4 file, the function fails to properly validate or restrict the arithmetic operations involved in calculating buffer sizes. This leads to an integer overflow condition where the calculated size values exceed the maximum representable integer values, resulting in unexpected behavior during memory allocation and data processing. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of multiple cybersecurity domains including memory corruption, integer overflow, and remote code execution, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where media processing is common.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass full remote code execution capabilities. Attackers can leverage this flaw by crafting specially formatted MPEG-4 video files containing malicious tx3g atoms that trigger the integer overflow during parsing. Upon successful exploitation, the vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the media processing service, potentially allowing attackers to gain complete control over affected devices. This represents a significant threat vector given that media files are frequently downloaded and processed automatically on mobile devices, making the attack surface extremely broad. The vulnerability affects all Android versions prior to 5.1.1, encompassing a substantial portion of the mobile device ecosystem and creating widespread potential for exploitation.
Security researchers have categorized this vulnerability under CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and it aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter execution. The vulnerability's classification as a memory corruption issue also ties into broader cybersecurity frameworks that address heap-based buffer overflows and related memory safety concerns. Mitigation strategies include immediate patch deployment for Android 5.1.1 and later versions, along with implementing additional input validation measures for media file processing. Organizations should also consider network-level filtering of suspicious media content and enhanced monitoring of media processing activities to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a prime example of why mobile device security requires continuous vigilance and why proper input validation is crucial in preventing remote code execution attacks in multimedia processing components.