CVE-2018-9577 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In impd_parametric_drc_parse_gain_set_params 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-116715937.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9577 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the Android media processing subsystem, specifically affecting the impd_parametric_drc_parse_gain_set_params function in the impd_drc_static_payload.c file. This issue resides in the audio dynamic range compression processing module that handles parametric DRC (Dynamic Range Compression) parameters for audio streams. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and boundary checking mechanisms that fail to properly verify array access limits when parsing DRC gain set parameters. Such missing bounds checks create a scenario where maliciously crafted audio data could trigger memory corruption during parameter processing, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with arbitrary data.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires user interaction, typically through the delivery of malicious audio content that triggers the affected parsing function when processed by the Android media framework. This interaction requirement places the vulnerability in the context of social engineering attacks where users must intentionally or unintentionally interact with compromised media files. The attack vector leverages the Android media processing pipeline where audio files containing crafted DRC parameters are parsed and processed, leading to the out-of-bounds write condition. The vulnerability's classification as potentially enabling remote code execution without additional privileges underscores its severity, as it could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the media processing service.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array indices, and represents a classic buffer overflow scenario where insufficient bounds checking leads to memory corruption. The attack surface is primarily within the Android media framework's audio processing capabilities, specifically targeting the DRC parameter parsing logic. The operational impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially compromise the entire media processing subsystem, as the affected function operates within a context that could be leveraged to escalate privileges or cause system instability. The vulnerability affects Android 9.0 systems and represents a significant security concern for devices running this version of the operating system.
The mitigation strategy for this vulnerability involves applying the relevant security patches provided by Google through the Android Security Bulletins, which typically include bounds checking enhancements and input validation improvements for the affected parsing function. System administrators and device manufacturers should prioritize the deployment of these updates to protect against exploitation. Additionally, implementing runtime protections such as address space layout randomization and stack canaries can provide defense-in-depth measures. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation in multimedia processing components and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through audio processing, demonstrating how seemingly benign media processing functions can serve as attack vectors. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their media processing pipelines and ensure proper input sanitization mechanisms are in place to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future implementations.