CVE-2017-0874 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A denial of service 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-63315932.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/12/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0874 represents a critical denial of service flaw within the Android media framework, specifically affecting the libavc component responsible for video encoding and decoding operations. This vulnerability manifests in Android versions 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, and 8.0, making it a widespread issue across multiple Android releases that could potentially impact millions of devices globally. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the media framework's handling of video codec data, creating a condition where maliciously crafted media files could trigger system instability.
The technical flaw exists in the way the libavc library processes certain video frame data structures during the encoding process. When processing specially crafted video files containing malformed or oversized frame parameters, the library fails to properly validate input boundaries before performing memory operations. This leads to integer overflow conditions that cause memory corruption within the media framework's internal buffers. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as an Improper Validation of Array Index, specifically manifesting as an out-of-bounds write condition that can result in arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The flaw operates at the kernel level within the Android media framework, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through standard media playback operations without requiring elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it can lead to complete system instability and potential device compromise. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by delivering malicious video content through various channels including email attachments, web downloads, or media sharing platforms. Once executed, the vulnerability can cause the device to crash repeatedly, rendering the device unusable until a reboot occurs. The attack surface is particularly broad as it affects standard media playback functionality, meaning any user could potentially be impacted simply by viewing or playing a malicious video file. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries leverage application vulnerabilities to execute malicious code.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0874 primarily focus on timely system updates and patch management protocols. Google released security patches for affected Android versions as part of their regular security updates, requiring device manufacturers to implement these fixes through their respective update channels. Organizations should implement strict media file validation policies and consider network-level filtering of potentially malicious media content. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and boundary checking in system components, particularly those handling user-supplied data. Security teams should monitor for exploitation attempts through network traffic analysis and implement device management policies that enforce automatic security updates. Additionally, users should avoid downloading media content from untrusted sources and maintain current security patches on their devices to prevent exploitation of this and similar vulnerabilities.