CVE-2016-2486 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
mp3dec/SoftMP3.cpp in libstagefright in mediaserver in Android 4.x before 4.4.4, 5.0.x before 5.0.2, 5.1.x before 5.1.1, and 6.x before 2016-06-01 does not validate the relationship between allocated memory and the frame size, which allows attackers to gain privileges via a crafted application, as demonstrated by obtaining Signature or SignatureOrSystem access, aka internal bug 27793371.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-2486 resides within the libstagefright multimedia framework of Android operating systems, specifically affecting versions prior to the mentioned security patches. This flaw exists in the mp3dec/SoftMP3.cpp component of the mediaserver process, which handles audio decoding operations. The vulnerability represents a classic buffer overflow condition that occurs when the system fails to properly validate memory allocation against actual frame size requirements during mp3 file processing. This issue falls under CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array indices, and more specifically relates to CWE-787, concerning out-of-bounds write operations that can lead to privilege escalation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the mediaserver process, which runs with elevated privileges and has access to system-level resources and capabilities.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious mp3 file that contains malformed frame size information. During the decoding process, the system allocates memory based on the deceptive frame size values provided in the crafted file. When the actual data exceeds the allocated memory boundaries, the system performs an out-of-bounds write operation that can overwrite critical memory locations including function pointers, return addresses, or access control structures. This memory corruption can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the mediaserver process, which typically operates with Signature or SignatureOrSystem access level. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a privilege escalation technique under T1068, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in legitimate programs to gain elevated privileges. The vulnerability demonstrates the classic attack pattern where an attacker manipulates input validation to achieve unauthorized access to system resources.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-2486 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise. Since the mediaserver process runs with high privileges and has access to system-level functionality, successful exploitation can lead to full device compromise. Attackers can potentially gain access to sensitive system data, install malicious applications, modify system configurations, or even establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing applications that process mp3 files. The fact that this vulnerability affects multiple Android versions and was present in the system core makes it a significant threat to a broad range of devices. Organizations and users must understand that this vulnerability represents a critical security gap that can be exploited without user interaction, making it particularly dangerous in environments where mobile devices are used for business or sensitive operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-2486 focus primarily on applying the appropriate security patches released by Google and device manufacturers. The vulnerability requires immediate patching of the affected Android versions, with the specific fixes available in Android security bulletins for the affected releases. System administrators should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all devices receive the necessary updates. Additionally, network-level defenses such as content filtering and sandboxing of media processing applications can provide additional protection layers. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious media file processing activities and unusual network communications from the mediaserver process. Device manufacturers should also consider implementing additional input validation checks within their custom implementations of the stagefright framework. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper memory management practices and input validation in system components that process untrusted data, emphasizing the need for robust security testing and code review processes throughout the development lifecycle.