CVE-2017-14646 in Bento4
Summary
by MITRE
The AP4_AvccAtom and AP4_HvccAtom classes in Bento4 version 1.5.0-617 do not properly validate data sizes, leading to a heap-based buffer over-read and application crash in AP4_DataBuffer::SetData in Core/Ap4DataBuffer.cpp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/29/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14646 resides within the Bento4 multimedia framework version 1.5.0-617, specifically affecting the AP4_AvccAtom and AP4_HvccAtom classes. These classes are responsible for handling atom data structures commonly used in mp4 container formats, which are fundamental components in digital media processing and streaming applications. The flaw manifests in the improper validation of data sizes during parsing operations, creating a critical security risk that can be exploited through maliciously crafted media files. This issue represents a classic buffer over-read vulnerability that occurs when the application attempts to read data beyond the allocated memory boundaries, potentially leading to unpredictable behavior and system instability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the AP4_DataBuffer::SetData function located in Core/Ap4DataBuffer.cpp. When processing AP4_AvccAtom and AP4_HvccAtom structures, the framework fails to properly validate the size parameters of the incoming data, allowing attackers to manipulate the size fields in a way that causes the application to attempt reading beyond the allocated buffer space. This particular flaw aligns with CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array indices, and more specifically relates to CWE-787, representing out-of-bounds write operations. The vulnerability can be triggered during normal media file parsing operations when the application encounters malformed atom structures with oversized size fields, causing the heap-based buffer over-read condition to manifest.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14646 extends beyond simple application crashes, as it represents a potential vector for more sophisticated attacks within the context of the ATT&CK framework's execution phase. When exploited, this vulnerability can cause denial of service conditions that disrupt legitimate media processing workflows, particularly in environments where automated media handling systems process untrusted content. The heap-based buffer over-read creates memory corruption that can potentially be leveraged by attackers to execute arbitrary code, though the direct exploitation path may require additional conditions. Systems that rely heavily on Bento4 for media processing, including content delivery networks, media servers, and digital asset management platforms, face significant risk from this vulnerability, as it can be triggered through simple file uploads or streaming operations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the Bento4 framework to version 1.5.1 or later, which contains the necessary validation fixes. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation measures for all media files processed through systems utilizing Bento4, including implementing strict file format validation and size checking mechanisms. Network-based defenses should include content inspection systems that can detect and block malformed media files before they reach vulnerable applications. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual application behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly around memory allocation and buffer handling operations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in multimedia processing frameworks and highlights the need for robust memory safety practices in applications handling untrusted binary data formats, aligning with defensive measures recommended under MITRE ATT&CK's defensive techniques for preventing code injection and memory corruption attacks.