CVE-2017-0408 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in libgdx 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 this library. Product: Android. Versions: 7.1.1. Android ID: A-32769670.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0408 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the libgdx library, a popular cross-platform game development framework widely utilized in android applications. This vulnerability exists in the processing of specially crafted files that can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of unprivileged processes running on android devices. The issue specifically affects android version 7.1.1 and is catalogued under android ID A-32769670, highlighting its significance within the mobile platform ecosystem. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the library's file parsing routines, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute unauthorized code sequences.
The technical flaw manifests in the way libgdx handles certain file formats during runtime processing, particularly when dealing with multimedia assets and resource files. Attackers can craft malicious files that, when processed by applications built with libgdx, trigger buffer overflow conditions or improper memory handling that allows code injection. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited remotely through various attack vectors including malicious file downloads, compromised web services, or malicious file sharing platforms. The exploitation requires no special privileges on the target device, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by attackers to compromise applications without requiring physical access or elevated permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond individual application compromise, potentially affecting entire ecosystems of android applications that utilize libgdx for development. Applications using this library become susceptible to remote code execution attacks that could result in data theft, unauthorized application modifications, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability's high rating reflects the ease with which attackers can exploit it and the broad attack surface it creates across the android platform. Security researchers have identified this as a significant concern for mobile application developers who rely on libgdx for their game development projects, as it essentially provides attackers with a direct pathway to execute malicious code within the application sandbox.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0408 primarily focus on immediate library updates and patches provided by the libgdx development team. Organizations should prioritize updating their applications to versions that include fixed implementations of the file processing routines and enhanced input validation mechanisms. Additionally, implementing network-level security controls such as file content filtering and application whitelisting can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. Security professionals should also consider conducting comprehensive vulnerability assessments of applications built with libgdx to identify potential exposure points and implement proper input sanitization protocols. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and script injection, emphasizing the need for robust input validation and proper memory management practices in mobile application development.