CVE-2022-30045 in ezXML
Summary
by MITRE • 05/18/2022
An issue was discovered in libezxml.a in ezXML 0.8.6. The function ezxml_decode() performs incorrect memory handling while parsing crafted XML files, leading to a heap out-of-bounds read.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-30045 resides within the ezXML library version 0.8.6, specifically within the libezxml.a component. This issue manifests through the ezxml_decode() function which demonstrates improper memory handling during the parsing of maliciously crafted xml files. The flaw represents a critical security concern that can be exploited by adversaries who craft specific xml input to trigger unintended behavior in applications utilizing this library. The vulnerability affects systems where ezXML is integrated for xml processing, potentially compromising the integrity and stability of applications that depend on this parsing functionality.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the ezxml_decode() function. When processing xml content, the function fails to properly validate memory access boundaries during the decoding process, resulting in a heap out-of-bounds read condition. This memory corruption vulnerability occurs because the parsing logic does not sufficiently verify the length of input data against allocated memory buffers, allowing attackers to craft xml payloads that cause the parser to read memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries. Such out-of-bounds memory access can lead to information disclosure, application crashes, or potentially more severe consequences depending on the execution context and memory layout.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-30045 extends beyond simple application instability, as it creates potential attack vectors for information disclosure and system compromise. An attacker who can influence xml input processed by vulnerable applications can exploit this heap out-of-bounds read to extract sensitive data from memory, potentially including credentials, application state information, or other confidential data. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through normal xml parsing operations, making it difficult to detect and prevent without proper input validation or library updates. Applications utilizing ezXML for processing xml from untrusted sources are at significant risk, as the vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including web applications, file processing systems, or any xml-based communication protocols.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate library updates to versions that address the memory handling flaws in ezxml_decode(). Organizations should conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all systems utilizing ezXML 0.8.6 or earlier versions, followed by urgent patch deployment or library replacement. Additionally, implementing input validation measures such as xml schema validation and strict content filtering can provide defensive layers against crafted malicious inputs. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for XML decoding and T1566 for malicious input delivery. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual memory access patterns or application crashes that may indicate exploitation attempts, while network segmentation and application whitelisting can limit the potential impact of successful attacks.