CVE-2021-45935 in Grok
Summary
by MITRE • 01/01/2022
Grok 9.5.0 has a heap-based buffer overflow in openhtj2k::T1OpenHTJ2K::decompress (called from std::__1::__packaged_task_func
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/05/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-45935 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the Grok JPEG 2000 library version 9.5.0. This flaw manifests in the openhtj2k::T1OpenHTJ2K::decompress function which serves as a core component for decompressing JPEG 2000 image files. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it originates from a function that is invoked through std::__1::__packaged_task_func, indicating the issue occurs within a multi-threaded or asynchronous processing context. The buffer overflow vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking during the decompression process where the library fails to properly validate input data lengths against allocated memory buffers. This specific implementation flaw allows an attacker to provide maliciously crafted JPEG 2000 files that can trigger memory corruption when processed by the vulnerable library.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows established patterns for heap-based buffer overflow conditions as classified under CWE-121. The flaw occurs when the decompression routine attempts to write data beyond the boundaries of allocated heap memory regions, potentially allowing for arbitrary code execution or system instability. The attack surface extends to any application or system that utilizes Grok 9.5.0 for processing JPEG 2000 images, including medical imaging systems, digital photography applications, and content management platforms. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by its location within a core decompression function that is likely invoked frequently during normal operations, making it a prime target for exploitation through file-based attack vectors.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations relying on JPEG 2000 processing capabilities, particularly in environments where untrusted image files are processed automatically. The potential for remote code execution through crafted image files means that web applications, document processing systems, and automated image analysis platforms could be compromised. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to execution through file processing and memory corruption attacks, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where image processing workflows are automated. Security teams should consider this vulnerability as a high-priority threat given its potential for privilege escalation and system compromise through seemingly benign image file processing operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-45935 primarily involve immediate patching of affected systems to upgrade to Grok versions that address the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation measures that sanitize all JPEG 2000 files before processing, including size and format verification. Network-based mitigations such as content filtering and sandboxing of image processing workflows can provide additional layers of protection. System administrators should monitor for exploitation attempts through log analysis and implement intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious file processing patterns. The vulnerability's classification as a heap-based buffer overflow necessitates memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and heap corruption detection tools to reduce exploitability. Regular security assessments should verify that all image processing components have been updated and that proper input validation is implemented across all system interfaces that handle JPEG 2000 files.