CVE-2021-41456 in MP4Box
Summary
by MITRE • 10/01/2021
There is a stack buffer overflow in MP4Box v1.0.1 at src/filters/dmx_nhml.c:1004 in the nhmldmx_send_sample() function szXmlTo parameter which leads to a denial of service vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/08/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-41456 represents a critical stack buffer overflow flaw within MP4Box version 1.0.1, specifically located in the nhmldmx_send_sample() function at line 1004 in the source file src/filters/dmx_nhml.c. This issue arises from improper handling of the szXmlTo parameter, which serves as a buffer for XML data processing within the media demultiplexing functionality. The flaw manifests when the application processes malformed or excessively large XML content during media file demultiplexing operations, creating a condition where attacker-controlled input can overwrite adjacent stack memory locations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it exists within a core media processing component that handles various digital media formats, making it susceptible to exploitation through crafted media files or network streams.
The technical nature of this buffer overflow stems from a classic stack-based memory corruption vulnerability where the szXmlTo parameter receives input without adequate bounds checking or size validation. When the application attempts to copy or process XML data into this buffer, it fails to verify that the incoming data length does not exceed the allocated stack space, leading to memory overwrite conditions that can corrupt the stack frame. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is categorized as a fundamental memory safety issue that has been consistently identified as one of the most prevalent and dangerous classes of software vulnerabilities in cybersecurity. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate memory management within the media processing pipeline, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-41456 extends beyond simple denial of service, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise when exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability affects MP4Box, a widely used multimedia processing tool that serves as a component within various media frameworks and applications, including popular media players, content delivery systems, and digital rights management platforms. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially cause application crashes, system instability, or even achieve remote code execution depending on the execution environment and memory layout. The denial of service aspect means that legitimate users would be unable to process media files through affected systems, while the potential for more severe exploitation makes this a critical concern for organizations relying on MP4Box for media processing operations. This vulnerability particularly impacts environments where media files are processed automatically or through automated workflows, increasing the attack surface and potential for widespread disruption.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-41456 should prioritize immediate patching of the MP4Box application to version 1.0.2 or later, which contains the necessary code fixes to address the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement input validation measures that enforce strict bounds checking on XML data processing within the affected component, ensuring that all szXmlTo parameter values are properly constrained before memory operations occur. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can help limit exposure by preventing unauthorized access to systems running vulnerable versions of MP4Box. Additionally, implementing runtime protections such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and data execution prevention mechanisms can provide additional layers of defense against exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual media file processing patterns or application crashes that might indicate exploitation attempts, while regular vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar buffer overflow conditions in other media processing components within the organization's technology stack. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1203 Exploitation for Execution and T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, highlighting the potential for privilege escalation and persistent access through exploitation of this memory corruption flaw.