CVE-2017-0682 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in the Android media framework. Product: Android. Versions: 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2. Android ID: A-36588422.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0682 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android media framework affecting versions 7.0, 7.1.1, and 7.1.2. This weakness resides in the system's handling of media files and specifically impacts the stagefright component that processes multimedia content. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and memory management within the media processing pipeline, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. The flaw is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through various media delivery vectors including mms messages, email attachments, and web content without any user interaction required. This makes it highly dangerous for widespread exploitation in the mobile environment where users frequently receive multimedia content from untrusted sources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a buffer overflow condition that occurs during the parsing of malformed media files within the Android media framework. The flaw manifests when the system processes certain crafted media data structures that exceed expected buffer boundaries, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged to overwrite critical program execution flow. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-125, which covers out-of-bounds read vulnerabilities. The attack surface is broad since the affected component processes numerous media formats including mp4, 3gp, and other multimedia containers that are commonly transmitted through various channels. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction beyond receiving the malicious media content, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where users are constantly exposed to multimedia communications.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0682 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data exfiltration capabilities. Once successfully exploited, attackers can gain full control over the affected Android device, potentially accessing sensitive user data, intercepting communications, and installing additional malicious software. The vulnerability affects the core media processing functionality that runs with elevated privileges, allowing attackers to bypass normal security boundaries and execute malicious code with system-level permissions. This creates a significant risk for enterprise environments where mobile devices may contain corporate data, and for individual users who may unknowingly trigger the exploit through routine activities like receiving text messages or browsing web content. The vulnerability's presence in multiple Android versions means that a substantial portion of the mobile user base remained at risk until the respective security patches were deployed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0682 focus primarily on prompt system updates and security patch deployment as recommended by Google and device manufacturers. Organizations should implement immediate patch management protocols to ensure all affected Android devices receive the necessary security updates as soon as they become available. Network-based defenses should include content filtering mechanisms that can identify and block suspicious media attachments, particularly those from untrusted sources. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes exploitation of remote services, and T1059, covering command and scripting interpreters. Device administrators should also consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can enforce security policies and monitor for suspicious media processing activities. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary media processing capabilities, restricting automatic media downloads, and educating users about the risks of opening untrusted multimedia content. Security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability, particularly unusual network traffic patterns or unexpected device behavior that might suggest exploitation attempts.