CVE-2017-0811 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-37930177.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/15/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0811 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 exists in multiple 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 dangerous as it impacts a wide range of devices from older to newer releases. The flaw 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 technical implementation of this vulnerability involves 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 manipulate memory layout through malformed video frames. This weakness is categorized under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, where insufficient bounds checking enables attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability specifically affects the video decoding pipeline where the system processes high efficiency video coding data streams, making it particularly dangerous when users encounter malicious media content through various attack vectors.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0811 is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to achieve complete remote code execution without requiring user interaction or device compromise. Attackers can deliver malicious video content through various channels including email attachments, web downloads, or compromised websites, allowing them to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the media framework process. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, as the successful exploitation allows for execution of malicious commands within the device environment. The attack surface is extensive since the vulnerability can be triggered through standard media playback scenarios, making it particularly dangerous for users who regularly consume multimedia content.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of security patches provided by Google as part of their regular security updates. Organizations should prioritize patch management and ensure all Android devices receive the latest security updates from manufacturers. The recommended approach includes implementing network-based filtering to block suspicious media content, particularly HEVC video streams from untrusted sources, and establishing robust mobile device management policies. Additionally, security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability and consider implementing behavioral monitoring to detect anomalous code execution patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory safety practices in multimedia frameworks, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Mobile Top 10 and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for mobile platform security.