CVE-2017-0762 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in the Android media framework (libhevc). Product: Android. Versions: 5.0.2, 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2. Android ID: A-62214264.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0762 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android media framework, specifically affecting the libhevc library responsible for handling high efficiency video coding. This vulnerability resides in the Android operating system's multimedia processing capabilities and affects multiple versions including Android 5.0.2 through 7.1.2, making it a widespread concern across the Android ecosystem. The issue stems from improper input validation within the video decoding process, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected devices.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a heap-based buffer overflow condition that occurs when processing specially crafted HEVC video streams. When the libhevc library attempts to decode malformed video data, it fails to properly validate the size of data structures, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited by attackers. This flaw operates at the kernel level within the media framework, allowing attackers to leverage the vulnerability through various attack vectors including malicious email attachments, web content, or downloaded media files. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, though the actual implementation manifests as heap corruption due to the nature of the media decoding process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple privilege escalation, as it enables full remote code execution on affected Android devices without requiring user interaction or authentication. Attackers can remotely compromise devices simply by delivering malicious video content, making this particularly dangerous in mobile environments where users frequently encounter untrusted media sources. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete device compromise, data theft, persistent backdoor installation, and potential lateral movement within corporate networks where Android devices are used. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, as successful exploitation would allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on compromised devices.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0762 primarily involve immediate patch deployment through Android security updates, as Google released patches for all affected versions. Organizations should implement network-based protections such as content filtering and sandboxing mechanisms to prevent malicious video content from reaching user devices. Mobile device management solutions should enforce automatic security updates and monitor for vulnerable device configurations. Additionally, users should avoid downloading media content from untrusted sources and maintain current Android security patches. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices in multimedia frameworks and highlights the need for comprehensive input validation and memory safety mechanisms in system-level libraries. Security teams should also consider implementing behavioral monitoring to detect anomalous media processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts.