CVE-2017-13207 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
An information disclosure vulnerability in the Android media framework (stagefright mpeg4writer). Product: Android. Versions: 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0. Android ID: A-37564426.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-13207 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within the Android media framework, specifically affecting the stagefright mpeg4writer component. This vulnerability resides in the Android operating system's multimedia processing capabilities and was discovered to impact multiple Android versions including 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, and 8.0. The issue stems from improper handling of malformed media files during the MPEG-4 writing process, creating a pathway for unauthorized data exposure. The Android ID A-37564426 further categorizes this vulnerability within the platform's security tracking system, indicating its significance in the mobile security landscape. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of information disclosure vulnerabilities that can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive system data.
The technical flaw manifests when the stagefright mpeg4writer component processes specially crafted media files that contain malformed or maliciously constructed data structures. The vulnerability occurs during the parsing and writing operations of MPEG-4 media files, where insufficient input validation allows attackers to manipulate memory structures and potentially extract sensitive information from the system. This weakness is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through media files encountered during normal user activities such as receiving multimedia messages, browsing media content, or playing downloaded files. The flaw operates at the system level within the media framework, bypassing typical user-level security controls and potentially exposing system memory contents, configuration data, or other sensitive information that should remain protected.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-13207 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it represents a potential vector for more sophisticated attacks within the Android ecosystem. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to extract device-specific information such as memory addresses, system configurations, or potentially even credentials stored in memory. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require user interaction beyond the normal consumption of media content, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where users frequently encounter multimedia files from unknown sources. This characteristic aligns with the attack pattern described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the information gathering and credential access phases, where adversaries can obtain system information without direct user engagement. The vulnerability's presence across multiple Android versions indicates a fundamental flaw in the media processing pipeline that required extensive patching efforts across the platform.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-13207 primarily focus on applying the official Android security patches released by Google, which address the underlying memory handling issues in the stagefright mpeg4writer component. System administrators and users should prioritize updating their Android devices to the latest security patches, particularly those released in the second half of 2017. Network administrators should consider implementing media content filtering solutions that can identify and block potentially malicious media files before they reach user devices. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation as outlined in CWE-20, which addresses improper input validation in software components. Organizations should also consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can enforce security policies and ensure timely patch deployment across enterprise devices. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of downloading media content from untrusted sources remains crucial in preventing exploitation of this and similar vulnerabilities.