CVE-2017-13254 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
A other vulnerability in the Android media framework (AACExtractor). Product: Android. Versions: 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0, 8.1. Android ID: A-70239507.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-13254 represents a critical flaw within the Android media framework specifically affecting the AACExtractor component. This issue manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs when processing specially crafted audio files, particularly those utilizing the Advanced Audio Coding format. The vulnerability exists in multiple Android versions including 6.0, 6.0.1, 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0, and 8.1, indicating a widespread impact across the Android ecosystem. The Android ID A-70239507 further categorizes this flaw within the platform's vulnerability tracking system, highlighting its significance in the mobile security landscape.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking within the AACExtractor module responsible for parsing audio file structures. When the media framework encounters malformed AAC data, the extractor fails to properly validate array indices before writing data to memory locations. This allows an attacker to craft malicious audio files that trigger memory corruption, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The flaw operates at the kernel level within the media framework, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited without requiring user interaction or elevated privileges. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array indices, and represents a classic example of memory safety issues in multimedia processing components.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-13254 extends beyond simple media playback manipulation, as it provides a potential attack vector for remote code execution within the Android environment. An attacker could deliver malicious audio content through various channels including email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing applications, enabling exploitation when the target device processes these files. The vulnerability's presence in multiple Android versions creates a substantial attack surface, particularly affecting devices that automatically download and process media content. Security researchers have noted that this flaw could be leveraged for privilege escalation attacks, potentially allowing adversaries to gain unauthorized access to sensitive device functions and data. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1059.007 technique for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation could enable execution of malicious code through compromised media processing pathways.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch deployment through official Android security updates, as the flaw cannot be effectively addressed through user configuration changes. Device manufacturers must prioritize the release of security patches to address the specific memory corruption issue within the AACExtractor module. Users should ensure their devices receive and install all available security updates promptly, particularly those targeting the media framework components. Network administrators should implement content filtering measures to prevent the distribution of potentially malicious audio files through corporate networks. Additionally, security monitoring solutions should be configured to detect unusual media processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date mobile security protocols, as the media framework represents one of the most frequently accessed components within Android devices, making it a prime target for exploitation.