CVE-2023-50009 in FFmpeg
Summary
by MITRE • 04/19/2024
Buffer Overflow vulnerability in Ffmpeg v.n6.1-3-g466799d4f5 allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary code via the ff_gaussian_blur_8 function in libavfilter/edge_template.c:116:5 component.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/24/2025
The buffer overflow vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-50009 resides within the FFmpeg multimedia framework version n6.1-3-g466799d4f5, representing a critical security flaw that enables local privilege escalation through arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability specifically targets the ff_gaussian_blur_8 function located in the libavfilter/edge_template.c file at line 116, where improper input validation and memory handling creates exploitable conditions for attackers. The flaw manifests when processing image filtering operations that utilize Gaussian blur algorithms, making it particularly dangerous in multimedia processing environments where FFmpeg is extensively employed for video and audio manipulation.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from inadequate bounds checking within the edge_template.c component, specifically in how the ff_gaussian_blur_8 function processes input parameters related to blur radius and edge handling. When maliciously crafted input data is passed to this function, the code fails to properly validate the size parameters, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checks allow memory access beyond allocated buffers. The attack vector requires local system access, making it a local privilege escalation vulnerability that can be exploited by adversaries who already have user-level access to the target system.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-50009 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can be exploited to gain elevated privileges on affected systems. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious payloads with the privileges of the FFmpeg process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects systems that utilize FFmpeg for multimedia processing, including content management systems, video streaming platforms, and any application that incorporates FFmpeg libraries for media manipulation. This represents a significant concern in enterprise environments where FFmpeg is widely deployed for various multimedia applications, as the attack surface is extensive and the potential for privilege escalation is high.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-50009 should prioritize immediate patching of FFmpeg installations to versions that address the buffer overflow condition in the edge_template.c file. System administrators should implement comprehensive monitoring for suspicious process activities and memory access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, input validation controls should be strengthened at application layers that interface with FFmpeg to prevent malformed data from reaching vulnerable functions. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers command and scripting interpreter execution, as exploitation may involve executing malicious code through compromised FFmpeg processes. Organizations should also consider implementing privilege separation measures and sandboxing techniques to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, particularly in environments where FFmpeg is used for processing untrusted multimedia content from external sources.