CVE-2024-32618 in HDF5
Summary
by MITRE • 05/14/2024
HDF5 Library through 1.14.3 contains a heap-based buffer overflow in H5T__get_native_type in H5Tnative.c, resulting in the corruption of the instruction pointer.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/11/2025
The HDF5 Library vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-32618 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw that exists within the H5T__get_native_type function in the H5Tnative.c source file. This vulnerability affects versions of the HDF5 Library through 1.14.3 and poses significant security risks to systems that utilize this widely-used library for handling complex scientific data. The flaw occurs during the processing of data type information within the library, specifically when determining native data types for scientific datasets. The buffer overflow vulnerability arises from inadequate bounds checking during memory allocation and data handling operations, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory contents and potentially execute arbitrary code.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it squarely within the CWE-122 category of buffer overflow conditions, specifically manifesting as a heap-based overflow that can lead to instruction pointer corruption. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can result in complete system compromise when exploited successfully. The flaw occurs in the context of data type conversion operations where the library attempts to determine the native representation of data types for processing. When malformed or specially crafted input data is processed through the H5T__get_native_type function, the library fails to properly validate buffer boundaries, allowing attackers to write beyond allocated memory regions. The corruption of the instruction pointer indicates that the overflow can potentially redirect program execution flow, enabling attackers to execute malicious code or cause denial of service conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across numerous domains where HDF5 Library is utilized, including scientific computing environments, data analysis platforms, and research institutions that handle large datasets. Systems using the affected library versions may experience crashes, data corruption, or unauthorized code execution when processing maliciously crafted HDF5 files or data streams. The vulnerability's exploitation potential makes it particularly concerning for environments where untrusted data processing occurs, such as web applications, data ingestion pipelines, and automated scientific analysis systems. Attackers could leverage this flaw to gain elevated privileges, access sensitive data, or disrupt critical scientific computing operations that depend on the integrity of the HDF5 library. The widespread adoption of HDF5 in scientific computing makes this vulnerability particularly impactful across research institutions, government agencies, and commercial organizations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-32618 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems with the latest library versions that contain the necessary security fixes. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring for suspicious file processing activities and establish robust input validation procedures for all data that passes through HDF5 processing pipelines. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, as exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands through controlled memory corruption. System administrators should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems that process untrusted HDF5 data. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all systems utilizing the affected library versions and prioritize remediation efforts based on risk exposure levels. Regular security updates and patch management procedures should be strengthened to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in future releases of the library.