CVE-2022-1920 in gstreamer
Summary
by MITRE • 07/20/2022
Integer overflow in matroskademux element in gst_matroska_demux_add_wvpk_header function which allows a heap overwrite while parsing matroska files. Potential for arbitrary code execution through heap overwrite.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/17/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-1920 represents a critical integer overflow condition within the matroskademux element of the GStreamer multimedia framework. This flaw manifests specifically within the gst_matroska_demux_add_wvpk_header function, where improper handling of integer values during matroska file parsing creates opportunities for heap memory corruption. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and arithmetic overflow checks that fail to properly constrain integer operations when processing specific header structures within matroska container formats.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through careful manipulation of matroska file structures to trigger the integer overflow condition. When the vulnerable function processes certain WVPK (WavPack) header data, it performs arithmetic operations that exceed the maximum representable value for the target integer type, leading to unexpected behavior in memory allocation and data placement. This overflow directly translates into heap overwrite conditions where adjacent memory regions become corrupted, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate critical program state or inject malicious code. The heap corruption occurs at the memory management level where the application allocates and manages dynamic memory blocks during media file parsing operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-1920 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass potential arbitrary code execution capabilities. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can manipulate the heap memory layout to overwrite function pointers, return addresses, or other critical data structures within the GStreamer process. This creates a pathway for privilege escalation and system compromise when the affected application processes maliciously crafted matroska files. The vulnerability affects any system running GStreamer with the matroskademux plugin enabled, making it particularly concerning in environments where media file processing occurs without proper input sanitization.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate patching and deployment of updated GStreamer versions that contain corrected integer overflow handling mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict input validation measures when processing user-supplied media files and consider sandboxing or containerization approaches to limit potential exploitation impacts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, Integer Overflow or Wraparound, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for application execution through heap-based memory corruption. System administrators should prioritize patch management procedures and consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability class.