CVE-2017-0763 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, 8.0. Android ID: A-62534693.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0763 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 issue stems from improper input validation and memory handling within the video decoding process, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. The vulnerability impacts a broad range of Android versions including 5.0.2, 5.1.1, 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, and 8.0, making it particularly concerning given the widespread adoption of these operating system versions across various mobile devices and platforms.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in a buffer overflow condition that occurs when processing specially crafted HEVC video streams. The libhevc library fails to properly validate the size and structure of incoming video data, allowing attackers to craft malicious video files that trigger memory corruption during the decoding process. This flaw maps directly to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which addresses heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. When exploited, the vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise as the attacker-controlled code executes with the privileges of the media framework process, potentially enabling full device control without user interaction.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0763 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it aligns with several tactics outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework including T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through various delivery mechanisms such as malicious email attachments, compromised websites, or infected media files distributed through social engineering campaigns. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered automatically during normal media playback operations, meaning users do not need to actively interact with malicious content for exploitation to occur. This characteristic places the vulnerability in the category of zero-click exploits, making it especially attractive to threat actors seeking to maximize impact with minimal user engagement.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch deployment as provided by Google through Android security updates, which address the underlying buffer overflow conditions in the libhevc library. Organizations should implement network-level controls to block suspicious media file traffic and consider deploying mobile device management solutions that can enforce security policies and ensure timely patch installation. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation and memory safety practices in multimedia frameworks, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Mobile Security Project and NIST guidelines for secure coding. Regular security assessments of media processing components and implementation of sandboxing mechanisms can further reduce the risk exposure associated with similar vulnerabilities in the Android media framework ecosystem.