CVE-2021-25385 in Smart Phone
Summary
by MITRE • 06/11/2021
An improper input validation vulnerability in sdfffd_parse_chunk_PROP() in libsdffextractor library prior to SMR MAY-2021 Release 1 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on mediaextractor process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-25385 represents a critical improper input validation flaw within the libsdffextractor library, specifically affecting the sdfffd_parse_chunk_PROP() function. This issue exists in versions prior to the SMR MAY-2021 Release 1 and creates a significant security risk by allowing remote code execution within the mediaextractor process. The vulnerability stems from inadequate validation of input data structures that are processed during the parsing of media file chunks, particularly those related to property information within sdff format files. The flaw manifests when the library fails to properly sanitize or validate user-supplied data before processing it, creating opportunities for attackers to craft malicious input that can trigger unexpected behavior in the underlying code execution flow.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of sdff format files that contain specially crafted property chunks. When the mediaextractor process attempts to parse these malicious chunks through the vulnerable sdfffd_parse_chunk_PROP() function, the improper input validation allows attackers to inject malicious data that can lead to stack-based buffer overflows or other memory corruption conditions. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation as a fundamental weakness in software design that can lead to various security issues including arbitrary code execution. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it can be triggered through media file processing, making it accessible to attackers who can convince victims to open or process malicious media content.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-25385 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities, as it can potentially allow attackers to gain full control over systems running vulnerable mediaextractor processes. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where media files are processed automatically or where users have the ability to upload or download media content that gets parsed by the affected library. The security implications align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers command and scripting interpreter execution through media processing, and T1203, which covers exploitation for privilege escalation through process manipulation. Organizations using affected software may experience unauthorized access to systems, data exfiltration, or complete system compromise depending on the privileges of the mediaextractor process and the attacker's objectives.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-25385 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems to the SMR MAY-2021 Release 1 or later versions that contain the necessary input validation fixes. System administrators should also implement defensive measures such as restricting media file uploads to trusted sources, implementing content filtering for media files, and monitoring for suspicious media processing activities. The vulnerability's characteristics suggest that organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of the vulnerable mediaextractor process to trusted environments only. Additionally, network-based intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for patterns associated with media file processing that could indicate exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability can be triggered through various network-based attack vectors including web application uploads or file sharing platforms.