CVE-2018-9575 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In impd_parse_dwnmix_instructions 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-116619387.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9575 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the Android media processing subsystem, specifically within the impd_drc_static_payload.c source file. This issue resides in the impd_parse_dwnmix_instructions function where inadequate bounds checking allows for potential memory corruption during audio processing operations. The vulnerability affects Android 9.0 systems and is tracked under Android ID A-116619387, demonstrating the severity of memory safety issues within mobile multimedia frameworks.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation during dynamic range compression processing of audio streams. When the system processes audio data containing maliciously crafted DRC (Dynamic Range Compression) instructions, the parsing function fails to verify array boundaries before writing data to memory locations. This missing bounds check creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate audio payload data to overwrite adjacent memory regions, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The flaw operates at the intersection of multimedia processing and memory safety, where legitimate audio processing operations become vectors for exploitation.
Remote code execution capabilities emerge from this vulnerability because it can be triggered through maliciously formatted audio files or streams that are processed by the Android media framework. The exploitation requires user interaction, typically through the playback of crafted media content, but does not demand elevated privileges or root access. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through standard media consumption activities such as playing downloaded audio files, streaming content, or receiving media attachments. The attack surface extends across all Android 9.0 devices that process audio content through the affected media processing pipeline.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond individual device compromise to encompass broader security implications within Android's multimedia architecture. Attackers could leverage this flaw to execute malicious code on target devices, potentially gaining persistent access to user data, intercepting communications, or escalating privileges through subsequent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-129, which addresses insufficient bounds checking, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through audio processing frameworks. Security professionals must consider this vulnerability as part of a broader attack surface that includes media processing components, requiring comprehensive patch management and security monitoring strategies.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch deployment through Android security updates, which typically include enhanced bounds checking and input validation mechanisms within the affected media processing functions. Organizations should implement network-based filtering of suspicious media content and establish monitoring procedures for unusual audio processing activities. Device administrators should disable unnecessary media processing features and maintain updated security configurations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of memory safety practices in mobile multimedia frameworks and underscores the need for continuous security assessments of media processing components to prevent similar issues from emerging in future software versions.