CVE-2017-0382 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in the Framesequence library could enable an attacker using a specially crafted file to execute arbitrary code in the context of an unprivileged process. This issue is rated as High due to the possibility of remote code execution in an application that uses the Framesequence library. Product: Android. Versions: 5.0.2, 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1. Android ID: A-32338390.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0382 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Framesequence library component of Android operating systems. This library serves as a framework for handling image sequence data and is widely utilized across various Android applications and system components. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and memory handling within the library's processing routines, creating a pathway for malicious actors to craft specially designed image files that trigger unintended code execution. The flaw specifically affects Android versions 5.0.2 through 7.1, encompassing a substantial portion of the Android ecosystem during that period.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a buffer overflow condition that manifests when the Framesequence library processes malformed image sequence files. When an application utilizing this library encounters a crafted file, the improper memory management causes stack corruption or heap corruption that can be leveraged by attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which addresses heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The attack vector requires only the delivery of a malicious file to a target device, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing applications without requiring any user interaction beyond opening the malicious content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it allows attackers to operate within the security boundaries of unprivileged processes on affected Android devices. This means that even if the target application runs with restricted permissions, the attacker can still leverage the vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to device resources, potentially leading to complete device compromise. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, and T1068, which describes exploit for privilege escalation. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur without physical access to the device, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments and individuals who may encounter malicious content through various digital channels.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0382 primarily focus on immediate system updates and application-level protections. Android security patches released in subsequent updates address the underlying buffer overflow conditions through improved input validation and memory management practices. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management programs to ensure all affected Android devices receive the necessary security updates as quickly as possible. Additionally, application developers should review their use of the Framesequence library and implement additional input sanitization measures beyond what the system patches provide. Network-level protections such as content filtering and email scanning can provide additional layers of defense, though they cannot fully compensate for the underlying vulnerability. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of robust input validation in multimedia processing libraries and highlights how seemingly benign file format handling can become a gateway for sophisticated attacks.