CVE-2024-49749 is a remote code execution vulnerability identified in the DGifSlurp function of the dgif_lib.c source file used in Google Android operating systems versions 12, 12L, 13, 14, and 15. The vulnerability stems from an integer overflow condition that causes an out-of-bounds write (CWE-787). Specifically, the integer overflow occurs during the processing of GIF images, allowing crafted GIF files to trigger memory corruption. This memory corruption can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely on the affected device without requiring any additional privileges or user interaction, making it a highly critical threat. The vulnerability is exploitable over the network (AV:N) with low attack complexity (AC:L) and no privileges required (PR:N). The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The flaw affects a wide range of recent Android versions, which are widely deployed globally. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, the vulnerability's characteristics and ease of exploitation make it a significant risk. The absence of patches at the time of reporting increases urgency for mitigation. The vulnerability is related to improper input validation and memory management in the GIF decoding library, a common attack vector for remote code execution in multimedia processing components.

The impact of CVE-2024-49749 is severe for organizations and individual users relying on affected Android versions. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially leading to full device compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, installation of persistent malware, disruption of device functionality, and use of compromised devices as footholds for lateral movement within enterprise networks. Given the widespread use of Android globally, including in critical infrastructure, government, and enterprise environments, the vulnerability poses a significant risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The lack of required user interaction and privileges lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the likelihood of exploitation. Organizations with mobile device management (MDM) policies and BYOD environments face elevated risks if devices are not promptly updated. The vulnerability could also be leveraged in targeted attacks or mass exploitation campaigns once exploit code becomes publicly available.

1. Apply official security patches from Google immediately once they are released for the affected Android versions. 2. Until patches are available, restrict or block the processing of untrusted GIF images, especially from unknown or unverified sources, to reduce exposure. 3. Employ mobile threat defense solutions that can detect anomalous behavior related to memory corruption or suspicious GIF file processing. 4. Use application whitelisting and sandboxing to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 5. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited multimedia content and encourage cautious behavior. 6. Monitor network traffic for unusual patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts targeting GIF processing. 7. For enterprises, enforce strict device update policies and consider isolating vulnerable devices from sensitive networks. 8. Collaborate with vendors and security communities to stay informed about emerging exploits and mitigation techniques.