CVE-2017-0760 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in the Android media framework (libstagefright). Product: Android. Versions: 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2. Android ID: A-37237396.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0760 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android media framework, specifically affecting the libstagefright component that processes multimedia content. This vulnerability resides in the Android operating system's media processing pipeline and was disclosed in 2017, affecting multiple Android versions including 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, and 7.1.2. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of crafted multimedia files during parsing operations, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. The Android ID A-37237396 further identifies this issue within Google's internal tracking system, highlighting its significance in the Android security landscape.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a heap-based buffer overflow that occurs when the libstagefright library processes specially crafted media files. The flaw manifests during the parsing of multimedia containers such as mp4, 3gp, and other supported formats, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This memory corruption can be exploited to manipulate program execution flow, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, though it manifests in heap memory due to the nature of the libstagefright implementation. Attackers can trigger this vulnerability by simply delivering a malicious media file through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or instant messaging applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0760 extends beyond individual device compromise, representing a significant threat to mobile security ecosystems. The vulnerability's remote execution capability means attackers can exploit it without physical access to devices, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where mobile devices handle sensitive corporate data. The attack surface is broad as any Android device processing multimedia content becomes a potential target, including smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 by enabling adversaries to gain remote access through compromised media processing components, potentially leading to data exfiltration, persistent backdoors, or further network infiltration. Organizations face substantial risk as the vulnerability allows for complete system compromise with minimal user interaction required for exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0760 primarily focus on prompt patch deployment and system updates, with Google releasing security patches for affected Android versions in the subsequent months. System administrators should prioritize immediate deployment of Android security updates, particularly for devices running the vulnerable versions. Network-level mitigations include implementing content filtering and media file scanning to prevent delivery of malicious multimedia content. Additional protective measures encompass disabling automatic media playback in email clients and web browsers, restricting media file downloads from untrusted sources, and implementing mobile device management policies that enforce security updates. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices in media processing libraries and highlights the need for comprehensive input validation and memory safety mechanisms. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability can be leveraged for advanced persistent threats and lateral movement within networks.