CVE-2026-115724: VLC for Android before 3.7.2 File Overwrite via Spoofed Mail Attachment Provider
VLC for Android before 3.7.2 contains a confused-deputy file overwrite vulnerability in FileUtils.getUri() that trusts content URIs based only on the com.fsck.k9.attachmentprovider or gmail-ls authority. A co-installed app without permissions can declare these authorities and send a crafted VIEW intent to the exported StartActivity, making VLC write attacker-chosen content under an attacker-chosen name in the shared Download directory, overwriting other apps' files when VLC holds All files access.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade
VLC for Androidto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 3.7.2
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
Which devices are exposed to exploitation?
Devices running VLC for Android before 3.7.2 are exposed when VLC has All files access. Exploitation requires a malicious app to be co-installed on the device.
What does an attacker need to do?
The attacker needs no permissions. A co-installed app can declare one of the trusted attachment-provider authorities and send a crafted VIEW intent to VLC's exported StartActivity.
What is the practical impact of a successful exploit?
VLC can be induced to write attacker-controlled content with an attacker-chosen filename in the shared Download directory. This can overwrite files belonging to other apps when VLC has All files access.
What should be done if the affected version is installed?
Update VLC for Android to version 3.7.2 or later. Until it can be updated, removing VLC's All files access prevents the described overwrite condition.