CVE-2019-12874 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

VideoLAN VLC media player 3.x through 3.0.7 has encountered a bug in zlib_decompress_extra, specifically in modules/demux/mkv/util.cpp. This bug arises when the Matroska demuxer attempts to parse a corrupted MKV file, resulting in a double free action.

Understanding CVE-2019-12874

An issue was discovered in zlib_decompress_extra in modules/demux/mkv/util.cpp in VideoLAN VLC media player 3.x through 3.0.7. The Matroska demuxer, while parsing a malformed MKV file type, has a double free.

What is CVE-2019-12874?

Vulnerability in VideoLAN VLC media player 3.x through 3.0.7
Bug in zlib_decompress_extra in modules/demux/mkv/util.cpp
Triggered when parsing corrupted MKV files
Leads to a double free action

The Impact of CVE-2019-12874

Allows attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code
May lead to denial of service (DoS) attacks

Technical Details of CVE-2019-12874

Affects the VideoLAN VLC media player 3.x through 3.0.7

Vulnerability Description

Bug in zlib_decompress_extra in modules/demux/mkv/util.cpp
Occurs when parsing corrupted MKV files
Results in a double free action

Affected Systems and Versions

VideoLAN VLC media player 3.x through 3.0.7

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can craft a malicious MKV file to trigger the vulnerability
Exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution or DoS

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update VLC media player to the latest version
Avoid opening or playing untrusted MKV files
Exercise caution when downloading files from untrusted sources Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update software and applications
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent attacks
Educate users on safe browsing habits and file handling

Patching and Updates

VideoLAN has released patches addressing this vulnerability
Users should promptly apply the latest updates to mitigate the risk