CVE-2019-2107 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In ihevcd_parse_pps of ihevcd_parse_headers.c, 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: Android. Versions: Android-7.0 Android-7.1.1 Android-7.1.2 Android-8.0 Android-8.1 Android-9. Android ID: A-130024844.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/06/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-2107 resides within the ihevcd video decoder component of Android systems, specifically in the ihevcd_parse_pps function located in ihevcd_parse_headers.c. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that manifests as a potential out of bounds write condition, making it particularly dangerous for remote exploitation. The issue stems from a fundamental missing bounds check during the parsing of picture parameter sets within the H.264 video decoding process, creating a pathway for malicious code execution without requiring elevated privileges. The vulnerability affects multiple Android versions including 7.0, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 8.0, 8.1, and 9.0, indicating a widespread impact across the Android ecosystem. According to the Android bug tracker reference A-130024844, this vulnerability was classified as a remote code execution risk that could be triggered through user interaction, making it particularly concerning for mobile device security. The underlying technical flaw aligns with CWE-787, which describes out of bounds write vulnerabilities, and represents a classic example of how insufficient input validation in multimedia decoders can create serious security implications.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-2107 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass full system compromise potential. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by crafting specially crafted H.264 video content that, when processed by the affected Android devices, triggers the out of bounds write condition. This remote code execution capability allows adversaries to potentially gain complete control over affected devices without requiring any additional privileges or user consent beyond interaction with the malicious content. The vulnerability's classification under the Android security framework indicates that it could be leveraged for various malicious activities including data theft, persistent backdoor installation, and further system compromise. The fact that this vulnerability exists in the video decoding pipeline means that it could be triggered through various attack vectors such as malicious emails with embedded video attachments, compromised websites serving malicious video content, or even through instant messaging applications that support video sharing. The missing bounds check in the picture parameter set parsing function creates a scenario where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory regions, potentially corrupting critical program structures or executing arbitrary code.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-2107 should focus on both immediate patching and operational security measures. Android device manufacturers and carriers should prioritize the deployment of security updates that address this specific vulnerability, as the patch would typically include proper bounds checking mechanisms to prevent the out of bounds write condition. Organizations should implement network-level controls to filter potentially malicious video content, particularly in environments where mobile device security is paramount. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation could enable adversaries to execute commands on compromised devices. Security teams should also consider implementing mobile device management solutions that can automatically apply security patches and monitor for exploitation attempts. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of interacting with untrusted video content remains crucial, as the vulnerability requires user interaction for exploitation. The vulnerability's nature makes it particularly suitable for zero-day exploitation attempts, where attackers could potentially leverage this flaw before patches are widely deployed, emphasizing the importance of proactive security measures and network monitoring for detecting exploitation attempts.
This vulnerability demonstrates the complex security challenges inherent in multimedia processing components within mobile operating systems. The ihevcd decoder's role in handling video content makes it a prime target for attackers seeking to exploit memory corruption vulnerabilities, as video decoders often process untrusted data from various sources without sufficient validation. The attack surface extends beyond individual device security to encompass broader ecosystem risks, as compromised devices could serve as entry points for larger-scale attacks against enterprise networks or personal data. The vulnerability's classification as requiring user interaction for exploitation does not diminish its severity, as mobile users are often less security-aware than enterprise users and may inadvertently engage with malicious content. Security researchers should monitor for related vulnerabilities in similar video decoding components and maintain awareness of how this flaw might be combined with other exploits to create more sophisticated attack chains. The importance of regular security audits in multimedia processing libraries cannot be overstated, as these components often contain complex parsing logic that can introduce subtle but critical security flaws.