CVE-2023-48348 in SC7731E
Summary
by MITRE • 01/18/2024
In video decoder, there is a possible out of bounds write due to improper input validation. This could lead to local denial of service with no additional execution privileges needed
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/12/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-48348 resides within a video decoder component where an improper input validation flaw creates a potential out of bounds write condition. This issue manifests when the decoder processes video input data without adequate bounds checking, allowing maliciously crafted video content to trigger memory corruption. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-787 which specifically addresses out of bounds write conditions, representing a critical class of memory safety issues that can lead to system instability and potential exploitation. The flaw exists in the video decoding pipeline where input parameters from video streams are not properly validated against expected ranges or limits before being used to index memory locations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the video decoder fails to validate the size or structure of incoming video frames, particularly in scenarios involving variable length data fields or metadata within video containers. When processing malformed video content, the decoder may attempt to write data beyond the allocated memory buffer boundaries, causing memory corruption that manifests as a denial of service condition. This out of bounds write typically occurs during frame parsing or buffer allocation phases where the decoder assumes valid input parameters without proper validation checks. The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges for exploitation since it operates within the context of normal video processing operations, making it particularly concerning for applications that process untrusted video content from various sources.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-48348 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as the out of bounds write condition can potentially cause system crashes, application hangs, or unexpected behavior in video processing applications. Systems that rely on automated video processing, streaming services, or media playback applications are particularly vulnerable since these platforms frequently encounter diverse video inputs from untrusted sources. The vulnerability affects any software component that implements video decoding functionality, including media players, streaming servers, content management systems, and mobile applications that handle video content. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 which involves exploiting software vulnerabilities to gain system access, though in this case the impact is limited to denial of service rather than privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-48348 should focus on implementing robust input validation mechanisms within the video decoder component. Developers must ensure that all input parameters are validated against predefined bounds before being used in memory operations, particularly when dealing with variable length data fields. The implementation should include proper bounds checking, input sanitization, and error handling procedures that prevent malformed data from causing memory corruption. Security patches should address the specific validation gaps in the video decoding logic, ensuring that buffer sizes are properly calculated and that input data is validated against expected ranges. Additionally, implementing defensive programming practices such as using safe string handling functions, employing memory protection mechanisms, and conducting thorough input validation testing can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Organizations should prioritize updating affected video processing software and implementing runtime protections to monitor for anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.