CVE-2016-6701 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in libskia in Android 7.0 before 2016-11-01 could enable an attacker using a specially crafted file to cause memory corruption during media file and data processing. This issue is rated as High due to the possibility of remote code execution within the context of the gallery process. Android ID: A-30190637.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2022
The vulnerability CVE-2016-6701 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the libskia graphics library component of Android 7.0 operating systems. This vulnerability specifically affects the processing of media files and data within the gallery application context, creating a significant security risk for affected devices. The flaw resides in how the library handles specially crafted media files, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on targeted systems. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the gallery process, which typically runs with elevated privileges and has access to user media files and system resources.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper memory handling within the skia graphics library implementation. When processing malformed media files, the library fails to properly validate input data, leading to buffer overflows or other memory corruption conditions. This type of flaw falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which deals with stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-125, which addresses out-of-bounds read vulnerabilities. The memory corruption occurs during the parsing and rendering of media content, where the library does not adequately check array bounds or validate the structure of incoming data streams. Attackers can craft malicious media files that trigger these memory handling errors, potentially allowing them to overwrite critical memory locations and execute malicious code with the privileges of the gallery application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Remote attackers can exploit this flaw without requiring user interaction or device compromise, making it particularly dangerous in scenarios where users might encounter malicious media files through various channels such as email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing applications. The gallery process typically has access to sensitive user data, including photos, videos, and other media files stored on the device. Successful exploitation could result in complete device compromise, data theft, or the installation of additional malicious software. The vulnerability's high severity rating reflects the potential for full system compromise, as the gallery process often runs with sufficient privileges to access system resources and user data. This makes it a prime target for attackers seeking persistent access to mobile devices.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-6701 primarily focus on applying the official security patches released by Google as part of their regular security updates. Organizations and users should immediately install the Android security patch released on November 1, 2016, which specifically addresses this vulnerability within the libskia library. Additionally, implementing network-based security controls such as content filtering and media file validation can help reduce the risk of exploitation. The mitigation approach aligns with the ATT&CK framework's defensive strategies, particularly focusing on patch management and application hardening techniques. Network administrators should also consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for media processing applications and restricting access to sensitive system resources. Regular security assessments and monitoring for suspicious file processing activities can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against zero-day exploits targeting core system components like graphics libraries.