CVE-2024-29159 in HDF5
Summary
by MITRE • 05/14/2024
HDF5 through 1.14.3 contains a buffer overflow in H5Z__filter_scaleoffset, resulting in the corruption of the instruction pointer and causing denial of service or potential code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/12/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-29159 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the HDF5 (Hierarchical Data Format) library version 1.14.3 and earlier. This issue resides in the H5Z__filter_scaleoffset function which is responsible for handling scale-offset filter operations within the HDF5 data format processing pipeline. The buffer overflow occurs when the library processes malformed or specially crafted HDF5 files that contain malicious scale-offset filter data, creating a condition where insufficient bounds checking allows arbitrary data to be written beyond the allocated buffer boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the scale-offset filter processing logic. When the H5Z__filter_scaleoffset function receives input data that exceeds expected buffer dimensions, it fails to properly enforce size limitations during memory allocation and data copying operations. This flaw directly maps to CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking permits data to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability creates a scenario where an attacker can manipulate the instruction pointer through controlled buffer overflows, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-29159 extends beyond simple denial of service to encompass potential remote code execution capabilities. Systems utilizing HDF5 libraries for data processing, scientific computing, or data storage operations become vulnerable when they process untrusted HDF5 files from external sources. This includes applications in research institutions, financial services, government agencies, and any organization that relies on HDF5 for scientific data management. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because HDF5 is widely used in high-performance computing environments, making it a prime target for adversaries seeking to compromise computational infrastructure. Attackers could exploit this flaw by crafting malicious HDF5 files that, when opened by vulnerable applications, trigger the buffer overflow condition and allow for privilege escalation or complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-29159 should prioritize immediate patching of all affected HDF5 library versions to 1.14.4 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement strict input validation measures for all HDF5 file processing operations, including file format verification and size limitation enforcement. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can help prevent unauthorized access to systems that process HDF5 data, while regular security assessments should verify that no legacy systems remain vulnerable. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers exploitation of software vulnerabilities for privilege escalation, and T1059, covering command and scripting interpreter usage for execution. Security teams should also consider implementing automated monitoring for suspicious file processing activities and maintain detailed logging of all HDF5 file operations to detect potential exploitation attempts.