CVE-2016-0839 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
post_proc/volume_listener.c in mediaserver in Android 6.x before 2016-04-01 mishandles deleted effect context, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted media file, aka internal bug 25753245.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/12/2022
The vulnerability described in CVE-2016-0839 resides within the mediaserver component of Android 6.x systems, specifically in the post_proc/volume_listener.c file. This issue represents a critical memory corruption flaw that stems from improper handling of deleted effect contexts during media processing operations. The vulnerability affects Android versions prior to the 2016-04-01 security patch release, creating a window of exposure for attackers who can exploit this weakness through carefully crafted media files.
The technical flaw manifests when the media server processes audio effects and fails to properly manage memory references to deleted effect contexts. This memory management error creates a scenario where attackers can manipulate the media processing pipeline to trigger use-after-free conditions or other memory corruption vulnerabilities. The vulnerability operates at the system level within the mediaserver daemon, which handles multimedia processing for various applications and system components. When a malicious media file is processed, the improper context handling allows attackers to either execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges or cause a system crash leading to denial of service conditions.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant security implications as it enables remote code execution capabilities without requiring local access or user interaction. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through standard media file processing, making it exploitable via email attachments, web downloads, or any media content delivered through network channels. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which describes use-after-free conditions, and represents a classic example of how improper memory management can lead to severe security consequences. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can potentially gain full system control or disrupt device functionality, making it a high-priority target for exploitation in mobile security contexts.
The impact extends beyond simple exploitation as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper resource management in system-level components. The mediaserver process operates with elevated privileges to handle multimedia operations across the Android framework, making successful exploitation particularly dangerous. Organizations and users must understand that this vulnerability represents a failure in the input validation and resource management processes within the Android multimedia framework. The flaw underscores the need for comprehensive security testing of system-level components and proper memory management practices. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patch deployment, implementation of media file validation mechanisms, and monitoring for suspicious media processing activities. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of following ATT&CK framework concepts related to privilege escalation and execution through system services, as the exploit chain typically involves leveraging system-level processes to achieve unauthorized code execution.