CVE-2018-9576 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In impd_parse_parametric_drc_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-116715245.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9576 resides within the Android media processing framework, specifically in the impd_drc_static_payload.c file where the impd_parse_parametric_drc_instructions function fails to perform adequate bounds checking. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that could potentially allow remote code execution when exploited. The vulnerability is classified under the Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) category CWE-129 as an "Improper Validation of Array Index" and more specifically aligns with CWE-787 which denotes "Out-of-bounds Write." The issue manifests when parsing dynamic range compression instructions within audio data streams, particularly affecting devices running Android 9.0.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the absence of proper input validation mechanisms within the audio processing pipeline. When the system processes parametric dynamic range compression instructions, it fails to verify that array indices remain within acceptable bounds before writing data to memory locations. This missing bounds check creates a scenario where maliciously crafted audio data could trigger memory corruption, leading to unpredictable behavior. The vulnerability requires user interaction for exploitation, typically through the playback of specially crafted audio files, making it particularly dangerous in real-world scenarios where users might encounter such files during normal device operation. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which covers "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" but more accurately maps to T1203 which addresses "Exploitation for Client Execution" in the context of mobile device exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides a pathway for remote code execution without requiring additional privileges. An attacker could potentially deliver malicious audio content through various channels including email attachments, messaging applications, or web-based media delivery systems. The fact that no additional execution privileges are needed makes this particularly concerning for mobile environments where users frequently interact with untrusted content. The vulnerability affects Android 9.0 specifically, though similar issues may exist in other versions of the Android operating system that utilize the same codebase for audio processing. This represents a significant risk to user privacy and device security, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-9576 should prioritize the immediate application of security patches provided by Google through the Android Security Bulletins. Organizations and users must ensure their Android devices are updated to the latest security patches released in Android 9.0 and subsequent versions. Additionally, implementing network-level controls to filter suspicious audio content and disabling automatic playback of media files can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual audio processing patterns and potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation in media processing components and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of all code paths involved in handling user-provided content. Organizations should also consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can enforce security policies and ensure timely patch deployment across all managed devices.