CVE-2015-4111 in Link
Summary
by MITRE
mc_demux_mp4_ds.ax in an unspecified third-party codec demux in BlackBerry Link before 1.2.3.53 with installer before 1.1.0.22 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted MP4 file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-4111 represents a critical code execution flaw within the BlackBerry Link software ecosystem, specifically targeting the mc_demux_mp4_ds.ax component which serves as a third-party codec demux for MP4 file handling. This vulnerability exists in BlackBerry Link versions prior to 1.2.3.53 and requires an installer version earlier than 1.1.0.22 to manifest. The flaw enables remote attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution through the careful crafting of MP4 media files, exploiting a fundamental weakness in how the software processes multimedia content. The vulnerability falls under the category of buffer overflow and memory corruption issues, which are commonly classified as CWE-121, CWE-125, or similar memory safety violations that occur when programs write beyond allocated memory boundaries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when BlackBerry Link processes a specially crafted MP4 file that contains maliciously constructed data within its structure. The mc_demux_mp4_ds.ax component fails to properly validate or sanitize the input data from the MP4 container, allowing attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite critical program structures or execute malicious code within the context of the running application. This type of vulnerability represents a classic remote code execution vector that can be leveraged across network boundaries without requiring local access or authentication. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that MP4 files are widely used multimedia containers that can be easily distributed through various channels including email attachments, web downloads, and file sharing platforms.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-4111 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can potentially allow attackers to gain complete control over affected BlackBerry Link installations. This includes the ability to install malware, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, and potentially escalate privileges within the operating system. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it without physical access to the target device, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where BlackBerry Link might be used for device management and data synchronization. Organizations relying on BlackBerry Link for mobile device management face significant risk if they have not updated to versions that address this vulnerability. The flaw demonstrates a critical gap in input validation and memory management practices, highlighting the importance of secure coding practices and proper software testing methodologies.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve updating to the patched versions of BlackBerry Link and the associated installer, specifically versions 1.2.3.53 and 1.1.0.22 respectively. System administrators should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all affected devices are updated promptly. Network-based mitigations can include implementing content filtering solutions that scan MP4 files for suspicious patterns or blocking MP4 file transfers entirely if they are not essential to business operations. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, making it a significant concern for security teams implementing defensive measures. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts. Given the nature of the vulnerability, regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar issues in other third-party components within the BlackBerry ecosystem and broader software infrastructure.