CVE-2017-0761 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in the Android media framework (libavc). Product: Android. Versions: 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0. Android ID: A-38448381.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0761 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android media framework, specifically affecting the libavc component responsible for handling video encoding and decoding operations. This vulnerability resides in the Android operating system's multimedia subsystem and was particularly concerning due to its potential for exploitation without user interaction, making it a prime target for malicious actors seeking to compromise devices remotely. The flaw manifests in the way the system processes certain video data streams, creating opportunities for attackers to inject malicious code that could execute with the privileges of the affected media framework components.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the Android media framework's handling of H.264 video streams. When the system processes malformed or specially crafted video data, the libavc component fails to properly sanitize the input before processing, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions, and specifically relates to improper validation of input data that results in memory corruption. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the system level within the media framework, allowing attackers to gain elevated privileges and potentially access sensitive device functions.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0761 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it enables attackers to perform a wide range of malicious activities including data theft, persistent surveillance, and device takeover. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability through various vectors such as malicious email attachments, compromised websites, or even through peer-to-peer file sharing applications that process video content. The vulnerability affects multiple Android versions including 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, and 8.0, indicating a widespread exposure across the Android ecosystem. From an adversary perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, as exploitation could enable attackers to establish persistent access and execute further malicious commands on compromised devices.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected Android versions through official security updates provided by Google and device manufacturers. Organizations should implement network-based protections such as deep packet inspection to identify and block suspicious video content that may contain malicious payloads. Additionally, users should avoid downloading content from untrusted sources and ensure their devices are running the latest security patches. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices in system-level components and highlights the need for comprehensive input validation mechanisms. Device security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for unusual network activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the security implications of multimedia processing components and the necessity for robust sanitization of external data inputs in mobile operating systems.