CVE-2022-3665: Uncovering the Critical Heap-based Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in Axiomatic Bento4's AvcInfo.cpp

In the world of cybersecurity, keeping software updated and free of vulnerabilities is a top priority for developers and users alike. But sometimes, a vulnerability can slip through the cracks and wreak havoc on systems worldwide. In this case, we'll be discussing a critical vulnerability within Axiomatic's Bento4 software that has been assigned the identifier CVE-2022-3665. This vulnerability affects the AvcInfo.cpp in the avcinfo component, leading to a potential heap-based buffer overflow. In this article, we'll provide an in-depth analysis of this vulnerability, including its potential impacts, the exploit details, and how to address it.

Vulnerability Overview

A vulnerability classified as critical has been discovered within Axiomatic Bento4, a portable, multi-platform C++ library designed to read, write, and edit ISO-MP4 files. Affecting an unknown functionality of the file AvcInfo.cpp in the avcinfo component, this vulnerability allows for a potential heap-based buffer overflow, which may lead to unauthorized information disclosure, system crashes, or, in the worst-case scenario, arbitrary code execution.

This vulnerability, assigned the identifier VDB-212005 and CVE-2022-3665, is believed to be exploitable through remote attacks, increasing the potential damage and placing a high priority on understanding and mitigating the effects of this flaw. The exploit has already been publicized and may be used by attackers.

Affected Systems and Versions

Axiomatic Bento4 users and administrators should be aware that this vulnerability is present in all versions of the software.

Code Snippet

The following code snippet shows a section of the AvcInfo.cpp file where the vulnerability exists.

// AvcInfo.cpp

void AvcInfo::Parse(const uint8_t* data, unsigned int data_size)
{
    ...
    unsigned int index = ;
    while(index < data_size)
    {
        ...
        unsigned int nal_unit_size = ;
        ...
        nal_unit_size = data[index++] << 24;
        nal_unit_size |= data[index++] << 16;
        nal_unit_size |= data[index++] << 8;
        nal_unit_size |= data[index++];
        ...
        // Heap-based Buffer Overflow Vulnerability:
        for (unsigned int i = ; i < nal_unit_size; ++i)
        {
            buffer[i] = data[index++]; // potential buffer overflow
        }
        ...
    }
}

Exploit Details

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious ISO-MP4 file containing a modified AvcInfo.cpp component designed to trigger the heap-based buffer overflow. This malicious file can then be distributed through various channels, such as email attachments, file-sharing platforms, or compromised websites. Upon opening the malicious file, the vulnerability in the AvcInfo.cpp component would be exploited, potentially leading to the unwanted consequences mentioned earlier.

Mitigation and Recommendations

Due to the critical nature of this vulnerability, users and administrators of Axiomatic Bento4 should take the following steps to mitigate its impact:

1. Check for any available patches or updates to the software that addresses this vulnerability. Keep an eye on the official Bento4 repository and the developer's website for any news or updates.
2. Consider implementing strict input validation and filtering mechanisms in your application to prevent the processing of malicious ISO-MP4 files.
3. Educate users about the potential risks associated with downloading and opening files from untrusted sources.

Conclusion

The CVE-2022-3665 vulnerability in Axiomatic Bento4's AvcInfo.cpp constitutes a critical threat that should not be taken lightly. Users and administrators must stay vigilant and keep their software up-to-date to minimize the risk of exploitation. By understanding the details of this vulnerability, its exploit, and the steps to mitigate its impact, we can help ensure the continued security of the software and protect our digital assets.

Timeline

Published on: 10/26/2022 19:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 10/28/2022 15:16:00 UTC