CVE-2017-0588 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in id3/ID3.cpp in libstagefright 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: 4.4.4, 5.0.2, 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2. Android ID: A-34618607.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/23/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0588 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android media processing framework, specifically affecting the libstagefright library component. This vulnerability exists within the id3/ID3.cpp file of the Mediaserver process, which handles multimedia file parsing and processing across various Android versions including 4.4.4, 5.0.2, 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, and 7.1.2. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and memory management during the processing of ID3 metadata tags within media files, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Mediaserver process. This represents a significant security risk as the Mediaserver process typically operates with elevated permissions and access to system resources, making successful exploitation potentially devastating for device security and user privacy.
The technical nature of this vulnerability manifests through memory corruption issues that occur when processing specially crafted media files containing malformed ID3 metadata structures. Attackers can construct malicious media files that trigger buffer overflows, use-after-free conditions, or other memory corruption patterns during the parsing of ID3 tags within the stagefright framework. These memory corruption conditions allow attackers to manipulate program execution flow and potentially inject malicious code into the memory space of the Mediaserver process. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the system level within the media processing pipeline, meaning that any media file processed by the system could serve as an attack vector, including files received via email, downloaded from web services, or transferred through various communication channels.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0588 extends far beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with a powerful foothold within Android devices. Once successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to execute code with the privileges of the Mediaserver process, which typically has access to sensitive system resources and can potentially escalate privileges further. The vulnerability affects all Android versions mentioned in the advisory, creating a broad attack surface that spans multiple generations of the Android operating system. This widespread impact makes it particularly concerning for both individual users and enterprise environments where Android devices are prevalent. The vulnerability's ability to be triggered through standard media processing activities means that users are exposed to risk simply by opening or playing media files, making it an ideal candidate for automated exploitation campaigns targeting vulnerable Android devices.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability. Immediate patching of affected Android versions represents the primary mitigation strategy, as Google released security updates addressing the memory corruption issues within the stagefright framework. Network-based defenses should include filtering of media file attachments and implementing strict content validation for files received through email, messaging applications, or web downloads. System administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict which media applications can process files, and monitoring for unusual network activity or system behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage, as exploitation typically involves executing malicious code within the compromised process. Organizations should also consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can automatically deploy security patches and monitor for exploitation indicators.