CVE-2017-0718 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in the Android media framework (mpeg2 decoder). Product: Android. Versions: 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2. Android ID: A-37273547.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/05/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0718 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android media framework, specifically affecting the mpeg2 decoder component. This issue resides in the Android operating system's multimedia processing capabilities and was discovered to affect multiple versions including Android 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, and 7.1.2. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the media framework's handling of mpeg2 video streams, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. The Android ID A-37273547 further categorizes this issue within the Android security vulnerability tracking system, indicating its severity and impact scope. This flaw operates at the system level within the media framework, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious media files, network streams, or compromised applications that utilize the affected decoder.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in insufficient bounds checking and memory management within the mpeg2 decoder implementation. When processing specially crafted mpeg2 video streams, the decoder fails to properly validate input parameters, leading to potential buffer overflow conditions or memory corruption scenarios. This memory corruption can be leveraged by attackers to overwrite critical memory locations, potentially redirecting execution flow to malicious code. The flaw is categorized under CWE-121 as a buffer overflow condition, specifically involving heap-based buffer overflows that occur during media stream processing. The vulnerability's exploitation requires a malicious mpeg2 video file or stream that triggers the vulnerable code path within the media framework, making it particularly insidious as it can be delivered through standard media playback scenarios.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0718 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with elevated privileges on affected Android devices. Once successfully exploited, the malicious code can access the device's full functionality including file system access, network communication, and potentially escalate privileges to gain system-level control. This vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious email attachments, compromised websites, or infected media files that users might encounter during normal device usage. The attack surface is broad since the mpeg2 decoder is commonly used in various media applications and streaming services, making it a prime target for adversaries seeking to compromise Android devices at scale. The vulnerability's presence in multiple Android versions means that a significant portion of the Android user base was potentially at risk, requiring immediate patching and mitigation strategies.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying the security patches released by Google as part of their regular Android security updates. Organizations and users should prioritize updating their Android devices to versions that contain fixes for this vulnerability, typically found in Android security patches released in 2017. System administrators should implement network-based controls to monitor and block suspicious media file downloads, particularly those originating from untrusted sources. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as the vulnerability enables attackers to execute commands through the compromised media framework. Additional protective measures include implementing application whitelisting policies, restricting media file downloads, and conducting regular security assessments of media processing applications. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution threat necessitates comprehensive network monitoring and endpoint protection solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts and prevent successful compromises of affected devices.