CVE-2026-0148: Android RTP Video Decoder Integer Overflow Remote Code Execution

Technical summary

CVE-2026-0148 is an integer overflow vulnerability in multiple functions within VideoRtpPayloadDecoderNode.cpp that results in out-of-bounds memory writes. The flaw exists in Google Android's RTP video payload decoder. An authenticated network attacker can trigger the integer overflow condition by sending specially crafted RTP packets, causing a buffer overrun that leads to arbitrary code execution in the context of the media processing service. The vulnerability requires low attack complexity and no user interaction, making it highly practical to exploit in real-world scenarios.

Business impact

Successful exploitation enables complete compromise of affected Android devices, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, installation of persistent malware, and lateral movement within enterprise networks. Organizations with Android-heavy device deployments face elevated risk of data exfiltration and compliance violations. The authenticated prerequisite lowers but does not eliminate practical risk, as valid credentials may be obtained through phishing, credential databases, or legitimate user accounts of departing employees. Media processing services typically run with broad system permissions, amplifying the blast radius.

Affected systems

Google Android is the affected vendor and product family. The vulnerability resides in the video RTP decoder component used for real-time media streaming. End-user devices, set-top boxes, IoT devices, and any Android system processing video streams over RTP protocol are in scope. Organizations should inventory Android devices handling untrusted video sources or connected to networks where RTP traffic flows. Enterprise deployments using Android for telephony, conferencing, or media applications face higher exposure.

Exploitability

The vulnerability is readily exploitable by an authenticated attacker with network access to target systems. Attack complexity is low—no special conditions, race conditions, or environmental factors are required. The attacker must possess valid credentials (user account or service authentication) but does not need elevated privileges. No user interaction or social engineering is necessary; exploitation occurs silently during normal media processing. The overall CVSS score of 8.8 (HIGH severity) reflects this practical exploit path. The attack is network-based, making remote exploitation feasible from any system that can send RTP packets to the target.

Remediation

Apply security updates from Google as they become available through Android Security & Maintenance Releases. Organizations should prioritize patching according to their device inventory and update schedule. Interim mitigation includes restricting RTP traffic from untrusted sources via network policies, disabling unnecessary media processing services where feasible, and enforcing strict authentication controls. However, these are not substitutes for patching. Monitor Google's official security advisories for affected Android versions and corresponding patch release dates.

Patch guidance

Monitor Google's Android Security & Maintenance Releases page for patches addressing CVE-2026-0148. Patches will be published for affected Android versions; verify the specific versions included in each security bulletin. Device manufacturers and carriers typically publish their own security updates based on Google's fixes. Organizations should establish a timeline for deploying patches to managed Android devices, prioritizing those in high-risk roles (field personnel with sensitive data access, customer-facing systems, network-connected devices). Test patches in non-production environments before broad deployment to ensure compatibility with business-critical applications. For devices no longer receiving updates, consider device replacement or enhanced monitoring.

Detection guidance

Monitor for unusual RTP packet patterns or malformed video streams directed at Android devices, particularly those with elevated media processing activity. Network intrusion detection systems (IDS) should flag anomalous RTP traffic with oversized or malicious payloads. Log memory protection events (stack smashing detection, ASLR bypasses) on Android devices processing video streams. Endpoint detection and response (EDR) agents, where deployed, should alert on unexpected code execution from media service processes or privilege escalation following media stream processing. Correlate failed or unusual authentication attempts with subsequent RTP traffic as a potential exploitation signal. Forensic indicators include memory corruption signatures and unusual process behavior in the media framework.

Why prioritize this

The combination of high CVSS score (8.8), remote network exploitability, lack of additional privilege requirements, and absence of user interaction makes this a high-priority patch. The authenticated prerequisite is the primary limiting factor but does not materially reduce risk in environments with shared networks or compromised credentials. Android's ubiquity in enterprise and consumer settings, coupled with the critical role of media processing, elevates organizational impact. Attacker capability to achieve code execution in a privileged service context without detection makes this a top-tier remediation candidate.

Risk score, explained

The CVSS 3.1 score of 8.8 reflects HIGH severity. The vector CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H captures network attack surface (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), low privilege requirement (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact across confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). The authentication requirement prevents a 9.8 critical score but does not materially reduce practical exploitability in many organizational contexts. The out-of-bounds write enables full system compromise.

Frequently asked questions