CVE-2017-13151 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability in the Android media framework (libmpeg2). Product: Android. Versions: 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0. Android ID A-63874456.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-13151 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Android media framework, specifically affecting the libmpeg2 library component. This issue resides in the Android operating system's multimedia processing capabilities and was tracked under Android ID A-63874456. The vulnerability impacts multiple Android versions including 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, and 8.0, indicating a widespread exposure across the Android ecosystem. The flaw originates from improper input validation within the MPEG2 decoding functionality, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of "Stack-based Buffer Overflow" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables remote code execution through media processing channels.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking during MPEG2 frame parsing operations within the libmpeg2 library. When Android devices process specially crafted media files containing malformed MPEG2 data, the decoding routine fails to properly validate input parameters, leading to memory corruption. This memory corruption allows attackers to overwrite critical memory locations and potentially inject malicious code that executes with the privileges of the affected media processing service. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through standard media playback scenarios, making it exploitable via various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or malicious media files distributed through social media platforms. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction, often only requiring the automatic playback of malicious content within media applications.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant threat to Android device security and user privacy. The remote code execution capability allows attackers to gain full control over affected devices without requiring physical access or user interaction beyond viewing or playing the malicious content. This makes the vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors targeting mobile devices for data theft, surveillance, or as a stepping stone for further attacks. The widespread affected versions mean that a substantial portion of Android devices in circulation remained vulnerable, creating a large attack surface for malicious actors. Security researchers have noted that the vulnerability could be leveraged for persistent backdoor installations, enabling long-term access to compromised devices. The impact extends beyond individual users to enterprise environments where mobile devices may contain sensitive corporate data, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations with mobile-first security policies.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-13151 primarily involve applying the security patches released by Google as part of their regular Android security updates. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of the patched Android versions that address this vulnerability, particularly focusing on the affected Android 6.0 through 8.0 releases. Device administrators should implement strict media file filtering policies and disable automatic media playback features where possible. Network-level protections can include implementing content filtering solutions that scan media files for known malicious patterns before allowing them to reach end-user devices. Users should avoid downloading media content from untrusted sources and should keep their devices updated with the latest security patches. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual media processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw necessitates comprehensive incident response planning, including device isolation procedures and forensic analysis capabilities to detect potential compromise. Organizations should also consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can automatically enforce security policies and ensure timely patch deployment across all managed devices.