CVE-2017-0836 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-64893226.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0836 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 manifests in Android versions ranging from 5.0.2 through 8.0, encompassing a significant portion of the mobile operating system's user base and creating widespread security implications across multiple generations of mobile devices. The issue stems from improper input validation within the video decoding process that allows maliciously crafted media files to trigger arbitrary code execution on affected devices. The vulnerability has been classified under CWE-129 as an insufficient input validation flaw, where the system fails to properly validate the boundaries of input data before processing. According to ATT&CK framework reference T1203, this vulnerability enables adversaries to execute malicious code remotely through media processing, representing a sophisticated attack vector that leverages the system's multimedia capabilities as an entry point for broader compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs during the processing of HEVC video streams where the libhevc library fails to properly validate the size and structure of video frame data. When a specially crafted HEVC video file is processed by the media framework, the insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to overwrite memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries. This memory corruption leads to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the media processing service, effectively providing attackers with a remote execution channel that operates at the system level. The flaw specifically affects the video decoding pipeline where the system does not properly validate the dimensions and memory allocation requirements for video frames, creating a buffer overflow condition that can be exploited through crafted video content. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the core media processing framework that handles multimedia content from various sources including email attachments, web downloads, and messaging applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0836 extends beyond simple remote code execution to represent a comprehensive threat to mobile device security and user privacy. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malicious applications, access sensitive user data, monitor communications, and potentially establish persistent backdoors on affected devices. The vulnerability affects all Android versions from 5.0.2 through 8.0, creating a substantial attack surface that includes millions of devices worldwide. The remote nature of the exploit means that victims do not need to interact with malicious content directly, as simply opening or previewing a malicious video file can trigger the vulnerability. This characteristic aligns with ATT&CK technique T1204.002 which describes the use of malicious content to execute code through system processes. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including email attachments, web-based media content, and messaging applications, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise and consumer environments where users frequently interact with untrusted media content.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0836 require immediate implementation of security updates and patches provided by Google as part of their regular security releases. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected Android devices to versions that contain the patched libhevc library and corresponding media framework components. System administrators should implement network-based controls to filter potentially malicious media content, particularly in enterprise environments where device management policies can be enforced through mobile device management solutions. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-129 highlights the importance of implementing proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms in all media processing components. Security teams should also consider deploying network monitoring solutions to detect anomalous media processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of opening untrusted media files and the importance of keeping devices updated with the latest security patches remains crucial. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security measures in mobile environments, as the exploitation of such framework-level vulnerabilities can provide attackers with extensive access to device functionality and user data.