CVE-2018-9574 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In impd_parse_split_drc_characteristic of impd_drc_static_payload.c there is a possible out of bounds write due to missing bounds check. This could lead to remote code execution with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation. Product: Android. Versions: Android-9. Android ID: A-116619337.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9574 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the Android media processing stack, specifically affecting the impd_parse_split_drc_characteristic function in the impd_drc_static_payload.c source file. This issue resides in the audio decoding subsystem responsible for processing dynamic range compression data within audio files. The flaw manifests when the system processes specially crafted audio payloads that contain malformed dynamic range compression characteristics, leading to improper memory boundary validation during data parsing operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and boundary checking within the audio processing pipeline. When the system encounters audio content with malformed DRC (Dynamic Range Compression) characteristics, the impd_parse_split_drc_characteristic function fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits before writing data. This missing bounds check creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite adjacent memory regions. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as an "Improper Validation of Array Index" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through audio processing components. The flaw operates at the application layer within the Android media framework, specifically within the audio decoding services that handle multimedia content processing.
Remote code execution potential emerges from this vulnerability because the affected function processes audio files that can be delivered through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or malicious media streams. The exploitation requires user interaction to trigger the processing of malicious audio content, typically through standard media playback or streaming applications. Attackers can craft specially formatted audio files that, when processed by the vulnerable Android system, cause the out-of-bounds write to occur at a strategic memory location. This memory corruption can then be leveraged to overwrite critical function pointers or return addresses, enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected media processing service. The attack surface extends across all Android 9.0 devices that process audio content through the vulnerable decoding path, making it particularly concerning for widespread exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-9574 require immediate system updates and patch deployment to address the underlying memory validation flaw. Android security patches should include enhanced bounds checking mechanisms within the impd_drc_static_payload.c file to prevent unauthorized memory access during audio payload processing. Organizations should implement network-level filtering to restrict potentially malicious audio content, particularly when delivered through untrusted sources. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation in multimedia processing components and aligns with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework. Additionally, implementing sandboxing mechanisms for media processing services and reducing privilege levels for audio decoding components can significantly limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Regular security auditing of media processing libraries and adherence to secure coding practices, including bounds checking and input validation, are essential for preventing similar vulnerabilities in future implementations.