CVE-2024-47539 in GStreamer
Summary
by MITRE • 12/12/2024
GStreamer is a library for constructing graphs of media-handling components. An out-of-bounds write vulnerability was identified in the convert_to_s334_1a function in isomp4/qtdemux.c. The vulnerability arises due to a discrepancy between the size of memory allocated to the storage array and the loop condition i * 2 < ccpair_size. Specifically, when ccpair_size is even, the allocated size in storage does not match the loop's expected bounds, resulting in an out-of-bounds write. This bug allows for the overwriting of up to 3 bytes beyond the allocated bounds of the storage array. This vulnerability is fixed in 1.24.10.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/18/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2024-47539 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the GStreamer multimedia framework, specifically within the isomp4/qtdemux.c component that handles mp4 file demultiplexing operations. This issue affects the convert_to_s334_1a function where improper memory management leads to potential arbitrary code execution or system instability. The vulnerability resides in the handling of audio sample descriptions within mp4 containers, making it particularly dangerous for media processing applications that handle untrusted input files. GStreamer's widespread adoption across various platforms including desktop environments, mobile applications, and embedded systems amplifies the potential impact of this flaw.
The technical root cause stems from a fundamental mismatch between allocated memory boundaries and loop iteration conditions within the media processing pipeline. The storage array receives insufficient memory allocation when dealing with even-sized ccpair_size parameters, creating a scenario where the loop condition i * 2 < ccpair_size executes beyond the allocated memory boundaries. This discrepancy results in writing up to three bytes beyond the intended storage array limits, creating a classic buffer overflow condition that can be exploited by attackers. The vulnerability manifests specifically when processing mp4 files containing certain audio sample descriptions that trigger the problematic code path, with the memory corruption occurring during the demultiplexing process when parsing audio metadata.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides potential attackers with opportunities for privilege escalation, denial of service, or remote code execution depending on the environment where the vulnerable GStreamer components are deployed. Systems processing untrusted media files become particularly vulnerable, including web browsers, media players, content management systems, and server applications that utilize GStreamer for media handling. The vulnerability's exploitation potential aligns with attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution) and T1499 (Endpoint Denial of Service) tactics. Organizations using GStreamer in production environments face significant risk, as this flaw could be leveraged to compromise system integrity when processing maliciously crafted mp4 files.
Security mitigations for CVE-2024-47539 require immediate patching to GStreamer version 1.24.10 where the memory allocation logic has been corrected to ensure proper bounds checking. System administrators should prioritize updating all affected GStreamer installations across their infrastructure, particularly in environments handling user-uploaded media content or processing third-party media files. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict input validation for media files, deploying sandboxing mechanisms around media processing components, and monitoring for anomalous behavior in applications using vulnerable GStreamer versions. The fix addresses the underlying CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) vulnerability by ensuring that memory allocation matches the expected iteration bounds, preventing the memory corruption that could otherwise be exploited. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems processing media files, as recommended by cybersecurity frameworks including NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 standards for secure application development and deployment practices.