CVE-2019-20162 in GPAC
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in GPAC version 0.8.0 and 0.9.0-development-20191109. There is heap-based buffer overflow in the function gf_isom_box_parse_ex() in isomedia/box_funcs.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-20162 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw within the GPAC multimedia framework version 0.8.0 and 0.9.0-development-20191109. This issue manifests in the gf_isom_box_parse_ex() function located within the isomedia/box_funcs.c source file, exposing the software to potential exploitation scenarios that could compromise system integrity and security. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation and memory management practices during the parsing of ISO media file format boxes, which are fundamental components of multimedia container formats used extensively in digital media applications.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the box parsing routine where the application fails to validate the size parameters of incoming data structures before attempting to allocate memory for processing. When maliciously crafted ISO media files are processed by affected GPAC versions, the function attempts to write data beyond the allocated heap buffer boundaries, creating conditions that enable arbitrary code execution or system crashes. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow, which is classified as a critical weakness in memory safety that has been consistently identified as a primary attack vector in cybersecurity incidents. The vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059.007 for command and script injection, as successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute malicious code within the context of the affected application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it provides attackers with potential pathways for privilege escalation and persistent system compromise. Multimedia processing applications that utilize GPAC as a core component, including content delivery networks, media servers, and digital asset management systems, face significant risk exposure when processing untrusted media files. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because ISO media files are commonly encountered in web applications, streaming services, and content distribution platforms, making the attack surface extremely broad. When exploited, this buffer overflow could enable remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to systems, install malware, or manipulate media processing workflows. Security researchers have documented similar patterns of exploitation in multimedia frameworks, where buffer overflows in parsing functions have been leveraged to achieve full system compromise, particularly in server environments where automated media processing is prevalent.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-20162 should prioritize immediate patch deployment from GPAC maintainers, as the vulnerability affects widely used versions of the multimedia framework. Organizations should implement strict input validation measures for all media file processing workflows, including file format detection and size parameter verification before processing. Network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by restricting access to affected systems. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for unusual memory allocation patterns can provide early detection capabilities. Security teams should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems that can identify malicious media file patterns and implement regular vulnerability assessments targeting multimedia processing components. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing of patched versions to ensure that the buffer overflow has been properly addressed without introducing regressions in functionality. Organizations using older GPAC versions should prioritize migration to supported releases and consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for media processing to contain potential exploitation attempts.