CVE-2021-44925 in GPAC
Summary
by MITRE • 12/22/2021
A null pointer dereference vulnerability exists in gpac 1.1.0 in the gf_svg_get_attribute_name function, which causes a segmentation fault and application crash.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-44925 represents a critical null pointer dereference flaw within the gpac multimedia framework version 1.1.0. This issue manifests specifically within the gf_svg_get_attribute_name function, which is responsible for processing svg attribute names during multimedia content parsing. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and error handling mechanisms that fail to properly check for null pointer conditions before attempting to dereference memory addresses. When maliciously crafted svg content is processed by the affected gpac library, the function attempts to access a null pointer, leading to immediate application termination through segmentation fault. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-476 category of NULL Pointer Dereference, which is classified as a common weakness in software development practices that can result in denial of service conditions and potential system instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple application crashes, as it creates a reliable denial of service condition that can be exploited by attackers to disrupt multimedia processing services. The gpac library serves as a foundational component for various multimedia applications including video players, streaming services, and content management systems that rely on proper svg attribute handling. When exploited, this vulnerability allows remote attackers to trigger application crashes through crafted svg files or content streams, effectively rendering the affected systems unusable until manual intervention occurs. The segmentation fault behavior indicates that the application process terminates abruptly without proper cleanup, potentially leaving system resources in an inconsistent state and creating opportunities for further exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.004 for network denial of service and represents a significant risk to multimedia processing environments that utilize the affected gpac library.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-44925 should prioritize immediate patching of the gpac library to version 1.1.1 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the null pointer dereference issue. System administrators should implement comprehensive input validation measures for all svg content processing, particularly in environments where user-supplied multimedia content is accepted. Network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts by restricting access to affected systems. Additionally, implementing robust application monitoring and intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts through abnormal application crash patterns or memory access violations. Organizations should also consider deploying sandboxing mechanisms for svg processing to contain potential exploitation attempts and prevent them from affecting core system operations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management practices and input validation in multimedia processing libraries, highlighting the need for comprehensive security testing of foundational software components that handle external data inputs.