CVE-2024-32613: Analyzing the Heap-Based Buffer Over-Read Vulnerability in HDF5 Library through 1.14.3

Overview

A heap-based buffer over-read vulnerability (CVE-2024-32613) has been discovered in the HDF5 Library version 1.14.3. The vulnerability exists in the function H5HL__fl_deserialize() in H5HLcache.c. This is a different vulnerability than the one reported under CVE-2024-32612. In this article, we will dive into the details of this vulnerability, examine the code snippet responsible for this vulnerability, and discuss how an attacker might exploit it.

Code Snippet

The problematic code section can be found in the function H5HL__fl_deserialize() in the source file H5HLcache.c:

/* Get hash mask from heap */
if(NULL == (heap_mask = (uint8_t *)H5MM_malloc(skip))):
H5MM_free(heap_mask);

/* Deserialize the free lists */
for(u = ; u < heap->flen_last_base; u++) {
    curr_free_list = &(heap->free_list_list[u]);
    curr_free_list_size = get_free_list_size(&heap_mask[u]);
    while(NULL != (new_free_node = H5FL__blk_list_remove(curr_free_list_size))) {
        if(NULL == (*curr_free_list = (H5HF_free_node_t *)H5MM_malloc(sizeof(H5HF_free_node_t))));
            H5E_THROW_SYSERR_RELEASE(H5E_NOSPACE, "memory allocation failed", H5_ITER_ERROR);

    } /* end while */
} /* end for */

A heap over-read occurs in the call to get_free_list_size(). The function takes an index in the heap_mask array but does not properly validate the index.

Original References

- Issue details and patches can be found on the HDF Group's official repository: link
- Complete information about the vulnerability on the official NIST's National Vulnerability Database: link

Exploit Details

The issue arises due to insufficient validation of user-supplied input within the H5HL__fl_deserialize() function. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious HDF5 file that, when processed by vulnerable software, can trigger a heap-based buffer over-read. This could lead to sensitive information disclosure or the software crashing due to reading memory outside of the allocated heap buffer. In some cases, it might even be possible to execute arbitrary code, allowing the attacker to take control of the affected system.

Mitigation

To protect against this vulnerability, users of the HDF5 library should update to the patched version as soon as possible. Developers can apply the patches provided by the HDF Group to their projects using vulnerable versions of the HDF5 library.

Furthermore, it is crucial to validate user-supplied data before processing it with the vulnerable software. Implementing input sanitization and input validation checks can help prevent potential exploitation of heap-based buffer over-read vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

The heap-based buffer over-read vulnerability (CVE-2024-32613) in the HDF5 Library through version 1.14.3 can lead to sensitive information disclosure, software crashes, or even arbitrary code execution in some cases. Users and developers should update to the latest patched version or apply the provided patches to their projects to resolve the issue. Moreover, implementing input validation and proper input handling can help minimize the risk of exploitation. Awareness of such vulnerabilities, keeping the software up-to-date, and following secure coding practices can significantly reduce the potential impact of threats on any software or system.

Timeline

Published on: 05/14/2024 15:36:46 UTC
Last modified on: 07/03/2024 01:56:46 UTC