CVE-2019-2064 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In libxaac, there is a possible out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to remote code execution with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation. Product: AndroidVersions: Android-10Android ID: A-116469592
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/11/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-2064 affects the libxaac library component within Android systems, specifically present in Android 10 builds. This issue represents a critical security flaw that stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the audio processing subsystem. The vulnerability manifests as a potential out of bounds write condition that occurs when the system processes audio data without proper bounds checking. This flaw exists within the Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) decoding functionality that handles multimedia content processing.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it squarely within the CWE-129 category of "Improper Validation of Array Index" and potentially relates to CWE-787 "Out-of-bounds Write" as well. The flaw occurs during the decoding process of AAC audio streams where the application fails to validate the size or boundaries of data structures before writing to memory locations. This missing bounds check allows an attacker to manipulate audio data in such a way that memory corruption occurs, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution vector means that an attacker could exploit this flaw without requiring local system privileges, making it particularly dangerous in mobile environments where user interaction is required for exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple audio processing failures, as it creates a pathway for attackers to gain unauthorized system access. In Android environments, this vulnerability could be exploited through malicious audio files delivered via email attachments, web downloads, or media sharing platforms. The requirement for user interaction suggests that the exploit would need to be triggered by a user opening or playing a specially crafted audio file, but once executed, the remote code execution capability could allow attackers to escalate privileges and gain full control over the affected device. This represents a significant threat to mobile device security and user privacy.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-2064 should focus on both immediate patch deployment and operational security measures. Android device manufacturers and carriers should prioritize the deployment of security updates that address the bounds checking deficiencies in libxaac. System administrators should implement network-based filtering to prevent the delivery of potentially malicious audio content, particularly in enterprise environments where user behavior cannot be fully controlled. The vulnerability's presence in Android 10 systems highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing robust mobile device management policies. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of opening audio files from untrusted sources and the importance of keeping their devices updated with the latest security patches. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect and block suspicious audio file transfers that may contain malicious payloads designed to exploit this vulnerability.