CVE-2017-0474 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in Mediaserver could enable an attacker using a specially crafted file to cause memory corruption during media file and data processing. This issue is rated as Critical due to the possibility of remote code execution within the context of the Mediaserver process. Product: Android. Versions: 7.0, 7.1.1. Android ID: A-32589224.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0474 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android mediaserver component that processes multimedia files and data. This issue affects Android versions 7.0 and 7.1.1, making it a significant concern for users of these operating system releases. The vulnerability stems from improper memory handling during media file processing, creating a condition where maliciously crafted media files can trigger memory corruption. The mediaserver process operates with elevated privileges, meaning successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of this privileged component. This presents a severe security risk as the mediaserver typically handles multimedia processing for various applications, including web browsers, messaging apps, and media players that may process untrusted content from external sources.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The flaw occurs during the parsing and processing of multimedia files where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to manipulate memory layouts and potentially overwrite critical memory regions. This memory corruption can be exploited to redirect program execution flow, enabling attackers to inject and execute malicious code. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the system level within the mediaserver process, which typically runs with system-level privileges and has access to sensitive system resources. Attackers could leverage this flaw by delivering malicious media files through various vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or malicious applications that process media content.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0474 extends beyond simple remote code execution to potentially compromise entire device security. Since the mediaserver process handles multimedia processing for numerous applications, exploitation could occur through various attack vectors without user interaction, making it particularly dangerous. The vulnerability's classification as critical under the CVSS scoring system reflects its potential for widespread exploitation and severe consequences. Once exploited, attackers could gain unauthorized access to device resources, potentially leading to data theft, persistent backdoor installation, or further privilege escalation attacks. The attack surface is broad as many applications utilize the mediaserver for media processing, including web browsers that render multimedia content, messaging applications that handle media attachments, and various media player applications. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as successful exploitation would likely involve executing malicious commands within the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0474 primarily focus on timely patch deployment and system updates. Android users should immediately install the security patches released by Google for Android versions 7.0 and 7.1.1, as these updates contain fixes for the memory corruption issues within the mediaserver component. Organizations should implement robust patch management processes to ensure all affected devices receive updates promptly. Network administrators should consider implementing content filtering measures to prevent potentially malicious media files from reaching end users, particularly when dealing with untrusted sources. Additionally, users should avoid downloading media files from untrusted sources and be cautious when opening media attachments in email communications. System hardening measures including restricting media processing capabilities for untrusted applications and implementing sandboxing mechanisms can provide additional protection layers. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in system components that process untrusted data, highlighting the need for comprehensive security testing and code review processes. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts and establish incident response procedures for handling such critical vulnerabilities.