CVE-2017-0476 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in AOSP Messaging 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 an unprivileged process. Product: Android. Versions: 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1. Android ID: A-33388925.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0476 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android Open Source Project Messaging application, specifically affecting Android versions 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, and 7.1.1. This security weakness resides in the handling of media file and data processing operations, where an attacker can craft malicious files that trigger memory corruption during normal processing procedures. The vulnerability's classification as High severity stems from its potential to allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of an unprivileged process, effectively providing a pathway for unauthorized system compromise without requiring elevated privileges. The Android ID A-33388925 specifically identifies this issue within Google's internal tracking system, highlighting its significance in the Android security landscape.
The technical flaw manifests through improper memory management during media file processing within the messaging application's media handling components. When the vulnerable application processes specially crafted media files, it fails to properly validate input data structures, leading to buffer overflows or other memory corruption conditions. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when developers do not adequately check array bounds or fail to properly sanitize user-provided data before processing. The flaw operates at the application layer where media files are decoded, parsed, or rendered, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered simply by receiving or viewing a maliciously crafted message containing harmful media content. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is significantly enhanced by the fact that it operates within a privileged process context, allowing attackers to potentially escalate their privileges or execute malicious payloads with system-level capabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0476 extends far beyond individual device compromise, as it represents a vector for widespread exploitation across affected Android versions. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through various attack surfaces including SMS messages, MMS communications, or even through web-based messaging interfaces that utilize the same underlying media processing libraries. The remote nature of the vulnerability means that victims need not interact with malicious content directly, as simply receiving a crafted message can trigger the exploit. This characteristic aligns with common attack patterns documented in the ATT&CK framework under initial access and execution techniques, where adversaries establish footholds through message-based delivery mechanisms. The vulnerability's presence in multiple Android versions indicates a widespread exposure that would require coordinated patching efforts across the Android ecosystem, potentially affecting millions of devices simultaneously.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0476 focus on immediate patch deployment and system hardening measures to prevent exploitation. Organizations should prioritize updating affected Android devices to patched versions that address the memory corruption issues in the messaging application's media processing components. The vulnerability's nature suggests that defensive measures should include input validation enhancements and stricter memory management practices within messaging applications. Security teams should implement network-based detection mechanisms to monitor for suspicious messaging patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on media file attachments in messaging protocols. Additionally, user education regarding suspicious message handling and the importance of keeping devices updated represents a critical defense layer. The vulnerability's alignment with CWE-121, which addresses buffer overflow conditions, emphasizes the need for robust buffer management practices and input validation controls. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability's remote execution capability makes it particularly attractive for large-scale automated attacks.