CVE-2017-0719 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-37273673.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/05/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0719 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android media framework, specifically affecting the mpeg2 decoder component. This vulnerability resides in the underlying multimedia processing infrastructure that handles various video codecs including mpeg2, making it a significant concern for device security and user privacy. The issue manifests in Android versions 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, and 7.1.2, indicating a widespread impact across multiple Android releases that were prevalent during the time of discovery. The Android ID A-37273673 further contextualizes this vulnerability within Google's internal tracking system, highlighting its severity and classification within their vulnerability management framework.
The technical flaw stems from improper input validation and memory handling within the mpeg2 decoder implementation. When processing maliciously crafted mpeg2 video files, the decoder fails to properly validate buffer boundaries and memory allocation, leading to potential memory corruption vulnerabilities. This type of vulnerability typically falls under CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, or CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate memory structures through crafted media content, potentially enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the media framework process. The vulnerability's exploitation requires a malicious media file to be processed by the affected Android version, making it particularly dangerous as users might encounter such content through various legitimate media consumption channels.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0719 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass significant security implications for Android users and organizations. Attackers could potentially deliver malicious mpeg2 content through various vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or compromised media streaming services, allowing them to execute arbitrary code on target devices without user interaction. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves legitimate system tools being used for code execution, and could facilitate lateral movement within networks if exploited successfully. The affected Android versions represent a substantial user base, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for widespread exploitation. Organizations deploying Android devices for enterprise use face elevated risks as this vulnerability could enable full device compromise, potentially leading to data exfiltration, persistent backdoors, or further network infiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0719 primarily focus on timely patch deployment and system hardening measures. Google released security updates for affected Android versions that addressed the memory handling issues within the mpeg2 decoder, requiring users to install the latest security patches immediately. System administrators should prioritize patch management processes to ensure all Android devices receive the necessary updates. Additional mitigations include implementing network-based filtering to block suspicious media content, disabling automatic media processing for untrusted sources, and employing mobile device management solutions that can enforce security policies. Organizations should also consider network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation and implement monitoring for unusual media processing activities. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw necessitates comprehensive incident response planning, including user education about potential phishing vectors and suspicious media content, as well as regular security assessments to identify unpatched devices within the organization.