CVE-2019-13615 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2019-13615, a heap-based buffer over-read vulnerability in VideoLAN VLC Media Player due to libebml versions before 1.3.6. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
A heap-based buffer over-read vulnerability in the MKV module of VideoLAN VLC Media Player binaries before version 3.0.3 due to libebml versions prior to 1.3.6.
Understanding CVE-2019-13615
This CVE involves a specific vulnerability in the MKV module of VideoLAN VLC Media Player binaries.
What is CVE-2019-13615?
The vulnerability is a heap-based buffer over-read issue in EbmlElement::FindNextElement caused by using libebml versions before 1.3.6.
The Impact of CVE-2019-13615
The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by exploiting the buffer over-read issue.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-13615
The technical aspects of the vulnerability are as follows:
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability exists in the EbmlElement::FindNextElement function within the MKV module of VideoLAN VLC Media Player binaries.
Affected Systems and Versions
- VideoLAN VLC Media Player binaries before version 3.0.3
- libebml versions prior to 1.3.6
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting a malicious MKV file to trigger the heap-based buffer over-read.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2019-13615, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update VideoLAN VLC Media Player to version 3.0.3 or later
- Upgrade libebml to version 1.3.6 or higher
- Be cautious when opening MKV files from untrusted sources
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to patch known vulnerabilities
- Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious activities
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches provided by VideoLAN and libebml to fix the vulnerability