CVE-2019-20089 in gpmf-parser
Summary
by MITRE
GoPro GPMF-parser 1.2.3 has an heap-based buffer over-read in GPMF_SeekToSamples in GPMF_parse.c for the size calculation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-20089 represents a critical heap-based buffer over-read condition within the GoPro GPMF-parser library version 1.2.3. This flaw exists in the GPMF_SeekToSamples function located in the GPMF_parse.c source file, where improper size calculation leads to memory access violations that can potentially be exploited by malicious actors. The issue stems from inadequate bounds checking during the parsing of GoPro metadata streams, specifically when processing sensor data and sample information embedded within video files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests when the parser attempts to calculate buffer sizes for memory allocation during the seeking process to sample data within GoPro video files. The GPMF parser uses a hierarchical metadata structure to store sensor readings, camera settings, and other telemetry data that accompanies GoPro video recordings. When the GPMF_SeekToSamples function processes these structures, it fails to properly validate the size parameters derived from the metadata headers, leading to scenarios where the application attempts to read beyond the allocated heap memory boundaries. This over-read condition occurs because the parser calculates the required buffer size based on potentially malformed or untrusted input data from the video file's metadata section, without sufficient validation of the input parameters.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it can enable attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause application crashes that may lead to denial of service conditions. When exploited, the heap-based buffer over-read can potentially reveal sensitive memory contents, including stack canaries, return addresses, or other critical data structures that may assist in further exploitation attempts. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for applications that process GoPro video files, as it could be triggered through normal file parsing operations without requiring special privileges or user interaction. The vulnerability affects any system or application that utilizes the vulnerable GPMF-parser library, including GoPro camera firmware, third-party video processing software, and mobile applications that handle GoPro video content.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on input validation and bounds checking within the parser implementation. The most effective remediation involves updating the GPMF_SeekToSamples function to properly validate all size parameters derived from metadata headers before performing memory allocation operations. This approach aligns with common software security practices and addresses the underlying CWE-129 issue related to insufficient size checks for memory access operations. Additionally, implementing proper error handling and graceful degradation mechanisms when malformed data is encountered can prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should prioritize updating to patched versions of the GoPro GPMF-parser library, as recommended by the vendor, and conduct thorough testing of affected applications to ensure the vulnerability has been properly addressed. The remediation strategy should also include monitoring for any potential exploitation attempts through network traffic analysis or file system monitoring, as this type of vulnerability often manifests during file processing operations and may be detectable through anomalous memory access patterns.