CVE-2017-7862 in FFmpeg
Summary
by MITRE
FFmpeg before 2017-02-07 has an out-of-bounds write caused by a heap-based buffer overflow related to the decode_frame function in libavcodec/pictordec.c.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-7862 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the FFmpeg multimedia framework that existed prior to the 2017-02-07 release. This flaw specifically affects the decode_frame function located in the libavcodec/pictordec.c source file, making it a significant security concern for any system that processes multimedia content using FFmpeg libraries. The out-of-bounds write condition occurs when the application fails to properly validate input data length against allocated buffer boundaries, creating a potential exploitation vector for remote attackers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking during the decoding process of Pictor format images within FFmpeg's codec library. When processing malformed or specially crafted Pictor image files, the decode_frame function attempts to write data beyond the allocated memory buffer, leading to memory corruption that can result in arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write conditions, and represents a classic example of heap-based buffer overflow exploitation. The flaw demonstrates a fundamental failure in input validation and memory management within the multimedia processing pipeline.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-7862 extends far beyond simple denial-of-service scenarios, as it creates opportunities for remote code execution attacks that could compromise systems processing multimedia content. Attackers could craft malicious Pictor image files that, when processed by vulnerable FFmpeg implementations, would trigger the buffer overflow condition and potentially allow for privilege escalation or complete system compromise. This vulnerability affects numerous applications and services that rely on FFmpeg for video and audio processing, including web servers, content management systems, media players, and streaming platforms that handle user-uploaded multimedia content.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-7862 primarily focus on immediate software updates and patches to FFmpeg versions released after February 7, 2017, which contain the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all systems using FFmpeg libraries receive the latest security updates. Additional protective measures include input validation and sanitization of multimedia content before processing, deployment of network segmentation to limit exposure, and implementation of intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers exploitation of software vulnerabilities, making it essential for security teams to monitor for potential exploitation activities. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning of multimedia processing systems remain crucial for maintaining defensive posture against similar buffer overflow threats in multimedia frameworks.