CVE-2017-0673 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in the Android media framework. Product: Android. Versions: 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2. Android ID: A-33974623.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0673 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android media framework that affects multiple versions of the operating system including android 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, and 7.1.2. This issue resides in the media server component responsible for processing multimedia content and handling various media file formats. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and memory management within the framework's handling of malformed media files, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. The flaw specifically manifests when the media server processes specially crafted media files that trigger buffer overflows or other memory corruption conditions, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to the system and potentially escalate privileges.
This vulnerability operates at the system level within the Android framework and aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions that occur when insufficient bounds checking is performed on heap memory allocations. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it can be exploited remotely through various delivery mechanisms including malicious email attachments, compromised websites, or infected media files downloaded from untrusted sources. The media framework's exposure to external inputs through multiple interfaces including content providers, media players, and file system handlers creates numerous potential entry points for exploitation. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 which covers command and scripting interpreter for remote code execution, and T1068 which involves exploit for privilege escalation.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0673 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Once exploited, attackers can gain persistent access to affected devices, install malicious applications, monitor user activities, and potentially use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network. The vulnerability affects all affected Android versions simultaneously, making it particularly dangerous as it impacts a broad user base across different Android releases. The media framework's integration with other system components means that successful exploitation can lead to privilege escalation, allowing attackers to bypass normal security restrictions and gain root access to the device. Additionally, the vulnerability can be leveraged to perform man-in-the-middle attacks, intercept communications, and establish backdoor access that persists across device reboots.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0673 require immediate implementation of security patches provided by Google through the Android security bulletin, which addresses the underlying memory corruption issues in the media framework. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected devices to the latest Android security patches, particularly focusing on versions 6.0 through 7.1.2 where the vulnerability is present. Network administrators should implement content filtering solutions to prevent users from accessing potentially malicious media files and establish monitoring protocols to detect suspicious network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Device users should avoid downloading media files from untrusted sources and maintain regular security updates to protect against known vulnerabilities. The patch implementation specifically addresses the buffer overflow conditions by enhancing input validation and memory management within the media server component, effectively closing the exploit pathways that allowed remote code execution. Security teams should also consider implementing mobile device management solutions to ensure consistent patch deployment across enterprise environments and establish incident response procedures to handle potential exploitation attempts.