CVE-2024-32616 in HDF5
Summary
by MITRE • 05/14/2024
HDF5 Library through 1.14.3 contains a heap-based buffer over-read in H5O__dtype_encode_helper in H5Odtype.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/12/2025
The HDF5 Library version 1.14.3 and earlier contains a critical heap-based buffer over-read vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-32616. This flaw exists within the H5O__dtype_encode_helper function located in the H5Odtype.c source file, representing a fundamental memory safety issue that can be exploited by attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code or cause system instability. The vulnerability manifests when the library processes malformed HDF5 files, specifically during the encoding process of data type objects where insufficient bounds checking occurs on heap-allocated memory regions.
This buffer over-read vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the HDF5 library's object encoding subsystem. The flaw occurs when the H5O__dtype_encode_helper function attempts to read beyond the allocated buffer boundaries while processing data type information stored in HDF5 files. According to CWE-125, this represents an out-of-bounds read condition that can lead to information disclosure, application crashes, or potential code execution depending on the memory layout and exploitation circumstances. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects the core data type encoding functionality that is fundamental to how HDF5 libraries handle structured data storage and retrieval operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-32616 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it can enable attackers to leverage the buffer over-read for more sophisticated exploitation techniques. When an application processes maliciously crafted HDF5 files using the vulnerable library, the over-read can potentially expose sensitive memory contents or trigger memory corruption that may be exploited through techniques aligned with ATT&CK tactic TA0001 (Initial Access) and TA0002 (Execution). Systems utilizing HDF5 for scientific data processing, data storage, or analysis workflows are particularly at risk, as these applications often process untrusted input data from various sources without proper sanitization. The vulnerability affects any software that depends on the HDF5 library for handling structured binary data, including scientific computing frameworks, data analysis tools, and storage systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-32616 should prioritize immediate patching of the HDF5 library to version 1.14.4 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer over-read condition. Organizations should implement robust input validation measures when processing HDF5 files, including file format verification and size limitation checks before parsing. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potentially malicious HDF5 content. Additionally, application developers should review their code for proper error handling and memory management practices, particularly when integrating third-party libraries. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) and T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution) as it represents a foundational memory corruption vulnerability that can be leveraged for arbitrary code execution. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify systems that may still be running vulnerable versions of the HDF5 library and ensure comprehensive protection against similar memory safety issues.