CVE-2017-0590 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in libhevc 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: 5.0.2, 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2. Android ID: A-35039946.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/23/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0590 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android Mediaserver component, specifically affecting the libhevc library responsible for processing HEVC video content. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and memory management during the processing of specially crafted HEVC media files, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit memory corruption issues that could lead to arbitrary code execution within the privileged Mediaserver process context. The affected Android versions span from 5.0.2 through 7.1.2, indicating a broad impact across multiple Android releases and highlighting the widespread nature of this security weakness.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the Mediaserver processes malformed HEVC video streams through the libhevc library, which fails to properly validate input parameters and buffer boundaries during decoding operations. This memory corruption vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate heap memory structures and potentially overwrite critical process memory regions, enabling privilege escalation from the Mediaserver's restricted context to full system control. The flaw operates at the intersection of buffer overflow conditions and memory corruption patterns, with the vulnerability being classified under CWE-121 for unsafe array access and CWE-125 for out-of-bounds read conditions. The attack vector requires only the delivery of a malicious HEVC file to the target device, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through email attachments, web downloads, or media sharing platforms without requiring user interaction beyond opening the file.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0590 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, data theft, and persistent backdoor installation within affected Android devices. The vulnerability's critical rating stems from its ability to execute code with the privileges of the Mediaserver process, which typically operates with elevated permissions to handle multimedia processing tasks across the Android framework. This makes the attack surface particularly attractive to threat actors seeking persistent access to mobile devices, as the compromised Mediaserver process can be leveraged to maintain access even after device reboots. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage, as successful exploitation would allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands within the device's operating system context. Additionally, the flaw demonstrates characteristics of T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as the initial code execution within the Mediaserver process can be used to gain further system privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0590 primarily focus on immediate patch deployment through Android security updates, with affected organizations and users required to upgrade to Android versions that contain the necessary fixes for the libhevc library memory handling. Device manufacturers should prioritize the implementation of security patches and ensure proper testing of updates to prevent regression issues. Network-based protections can include content filtering and media file scanning mechanisms, though these approaches may not be comprehensive given the vulnerability's ability to execute through legitimate media processing channels. The vulnerability also emphasizes the importance of input validation and secure coding practices, particularly in multimedia processing libraries where buffer management and memory allocation are critical. Organizations should implement regular security assessments of their mobile device management policies and ensure that all Android devices receive timely security updates to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities such as this one. The remediation process requires careful consideration of device compatibility and update deployment strategies, particularly in enterprise environments where device management and security policies must be coordinated to ensure comprehensive protection against this and similar vulnerabilities.