CVE-2017-0716 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in the Android media framework (libmpeg2). Product: Android. Versions: 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2. Android ID: A-37203196.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/05/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0716 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android media framework, specifically affecting the libmpeg2 library component. This vulnerability resides in the Android operating system's multimedia processing capabilities and was discovered to impact multiple versions including Android 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, and 7.1.2. The issue stems from improper handling of MPEG-2 video files within the media framework, creating a potential attack vector that could be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. The vulnerability was assigned the Android ID A-37203196, indicating its classification within Google's internal tracking system for Android security issues.
The technical flaw manifests through a buffer overflow condition in the MPEG-2 parsing logic within libmpeg2, which occurs when processing specially crafted malicious MPEG-2 video files. When an Android device attempts to decode or process such malformed media content, the insufficient bounds checking in the media framework allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-125, which addresses out-of-bounds read vulnerabilities. The flaw operates at the application layer of the Android system, specifically within the media framework that handles multimedia content processing, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through various media consumption scenarios including email attachments, web downloads, or media sharing applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0716 extends beyond simple device compromise, as it provides attackers with a means to gain unauthorized access to affected Android devices without requiring physical presence or user interaction beyond the simple act of processing malicious media content. This vulnerability enables threat actors to potentially install malware, access sensitive user data, monitor communications, or escalate privileges within the device environment. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability can be triggered through common media processing activities, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to exploit large user bases. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework would place it within the initial access and execution domains, potentially enabling further lateral movement and persistence within compromised environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0716 primarily focus on timely patch deployment and system updates provided by Google and device manufacturers. Organizations and users should immediately apply the security patches released as part of Android security updates, particularly those addressing the media framework and libmpeg2 components. Network administrators should implement media content filtering and sandboxing measures to prevent automatic processing of potentially malicious media files. Device manufacturers should ensure comprehensive testing of media processing components and maintain updated security patches for their devices. Additional protective measures include user education regarding suspicious media file downloads, implementation of network-based intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits of media processing applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and highlights the risks associated with legacy Android versions that may no longer receive security updates, emphasizing the need for comprehensive mobile device management strategies within enterprise environments.