CVE-2020-0168 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In impeg2_fmt_conv_yuv420p_to_yuv420sp_uv of impeg2_format_conv.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: AndroidVersions: Android-10Android ID: A-137798382
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/12/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-0168 resides within the MPEG2 format conversion functionality of Android's media processing stack, specifically in the impeg2_fmt_conv_yuv420p_to_yuv420sp_uv function. This flaw represents a critical out-of-bounds write condition that arises from inadequate input validation and missing bounds checking mechanisms. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-787, which describes out-of-bounds write conditions that can occur when array indices or buffer sizes are not properly validated before memory access operations. The affected component is part of the Android 10 operating system and is associated with the Android ID A-137798382, indicating its presence in the Android security bulletin for that version.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs during the conversion process of YUV420P (planar) to YUV420SP (semi-planar) color formats, which are commonly used in video processing applications. When the impeg2_format_conv.c module processes video data, it fails to validate the boundaries of memory operations, allowing an attacker to manipulate input data that exceeds expected buffer dimensions. This missing bounds check creates an opportunity for arbitrary memory corruption, where maliciously crafted video content could cause the processor to write data beyond allocated memory regions. The flaw is particularly concerning because it operates at the media processing level, which is frequently accessed by various applications and system components during video playback operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-0168 extends beyond simple memory corruption, presenting a potential pathway for remote code execution without requiring elevated privileges. This vulnerability can be exploited through user interaction, meaning that simply opening or playing a maliciously crafted video file could trigger the exploit. The attack vector typically involves sending specially formatted video content through various communication channels such as email attachments, messaging applications, or web downloads. The exploitation mechanism aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes the use of malicious files to gain execution privileges, and T1068, which covers the exploitation of vulnerabilities for privilege escalation. The fact that no additional execution privileges are required makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by attackers with minimal access to the target system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-0168 should focus on both immediate patching and operational security measures. Android users should install the latest security updates from Google, which contain the necessary fixes for this vulnerability. The patch typically involves implementing proper bounds checking in the affected function to validate input parameters before memory operations occur. Organizations should also consider implementing network-based security controls such as content filtering and sandboxing mechanisms to prevent the execution of potentially malicious media files. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and memory safety practices in multimedia processing libraries, as highlighted in the CWE guidelines for preventing buffer overflow conditions. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual media processing patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly in environments where video content is frequently handled or processed.