CVE-2021-45297 in GPAC
Summary
by MITRE • 12/21/2021
An infinite loop vulnerability exists in Gpac 1.0.1 in gf_get_bit_size.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-45297 represents a critical security flaw within the Gpac multimedia framework version 1.0.1, specifically within the gf_get_bit_size function. This issue manifests as an infinite loop condition that can be triggered through malformed input data processing, creating a potential denial of service scenario for applications utilizing this multimedia library. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and boundary checking within the bit size calculation routine, which fails to properly handle edge cases that could lead to iterative processing without termination. Such a flaw directly impacts the robustness and reliability of multimedia processing applications that depend on Gpac for content handling and manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the gf_get_bit_size function processes data streams containing specific malformed bit patterns or invalid bit length specifications. The function lacks proper loop termination conditions or input constraints that would prevent it from entering an infinite iteration cycle. This behavior aligns with CWE-835, which describes the weakness of infinite loops or iterations without proper exit conditions, making it particularly dangerous in environments where processing resources are limited or where the vulnerability could be exploited through crafted input streams. The flaw demonstrates poor defensive programming practices where the code assumes valid input without implementing adequate validation mechanisms to detect and handle abnormal data patterns.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it can potentially disrupt multimedia applications that rely on Gpac for processing various media formats including video, audio, and interactive content. When exploited, the infinite loop causes continuous CPU utilization and resource exhaustion, effectively rendering the affected application unresponsive to legitimate user requests. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in streaming environments, content delivery networks, and multimedia processing servers where sustained resource consumption could lead to cascading failures and service degradation. The exploitability of this issue is relatively straightforward, requiring only the injection of malformed data that triggers the problematic code path within the bit size calculation function, making it a significant risk for applications processing untrusted media content.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-45297 should prioritize immediate patching of the Gpac library to version 1.0.2 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the infinite loop condition. Organizations should implement input validation measures at application boundaries to detect and reject malformed data before it reaches the vulnerable function. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing resource limits and monitoring mechanisms to detect and respond to abnormal CPU usage patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper code review processes and automated testing including fuzzing techniques to identify similar issues in other cryptographic and multimedia libraries. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to the T1499.004 technique related to network denial of service, and the T1059.007 technique involving command and scripting interpreter usage in the context of exploitation attempts.