CVE-2018-18699 in gpmf-parser
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in GoPro gpmf-parser 1.2.1. There is an out-of-bounds write in OpenMP4Source in GPMF_mp4reader.c.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-18699 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the GoPro gpmf-parser library version 1.2.1. This library is specifically designed to parse GoPro camera metadata files, particularly those stored in MP4 container format, making it a crucial component for processing and analyzing video metadata from GoPro devices. The issue manifests within the OpenMP4Source function located in the GPMF_mp4reader.c source file, where improper bounds checking allows maliciously crafted MP4 files to trigger memory corruption during the parsing process.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and boundary checking mechanisms within the parser's handling of MP4 file structures. When the OpenMP4Source function processes malformed or specially crafted MP4 files, it fails to properly validate array access boundaries, leading to memory writes that extend beyond allocated buffer limits. This type of flaw falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds writes, and represents a classic buffer overflow condition that can be exploited for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates at the parsing level of media files, making it susceptible to exploitation through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing platforms where users might inadvertently open maliciously crafted GoPro metadata files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends significantly beyond simple memory corruption, as it creates potential pathways for remote code execution and system compromise. Attackers could craft malicious MP4 files containing specially constructed metadata that, when processed by applications using the vulnerable gpmf-parser library, would trigger the out-of-bounds write condition. This scenario is particularly dangerous in environments where GoPro metadata files are automatically processed or where users might encounter such files through legitimate means, such as social media sharing or digital asset management systems. The vulnerability's exploitation potential aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves exploitation of software vulnerabilities through the use of maliciously crafted files, and could potentially enable adversaries to gain unauthorized access to systems or escalate privileges within affected environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate remediation through library updates to versions that address the out-of-bounds write condition. Organizations should prioritize updating all systems and applications that utilize the GoPro gpmf-parser library, particularly those handling multimedia file processing or metadata analysis workflows. Additionally, implementing defensive measures such as input validation, sandboxing of file processing operations, and network-based filtering of suspicious file types can help reduce the attack surface. Security teams should also consider monitoring for potential exploitation attempts through network traffic analysis and implementing proper file type validation before processing any media files through the vulnerable parser. The fix typically involves adding proper bounds checking mechanisms and ensuring that all array accesses are validated against allocated memory boundaries, preventing the out-of-bounds write condition that leads to memory corruption and potential code execution.