CVE-2019-13962 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

The VLC media player, specifically the lavc_CopyPicture function in the video.c module of the avcodec, is vulnerable to a heap-based buffer over-read issue due to inadequate validation of parameters. This vulnerability affects versions up to 3.0.7 of VLC.

Understanding CVE-2019-13962

This CVE involves a heap-based buffer over-read vulnerability in the VLC media player.

What is CVE-2019-13962?

The lavc_CopyPicture function in the video.c module of the avcodec in VLC suffers from a heap-based buffer over-read due to insufficient validation of width and height parameters.

The Impact of CVE-2019-13962

This vulnerability could allow an attacker to exploit the heap-based buffer over-read issue, potentially leading to information disclosure or denial of service.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-13962

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The lavc_CopyPicture function in the video.c module of the avcodec in VLC up to version 3.0.7 is susceptible to a heap-based buffer over-read because of inadequate validation of width and height parameters.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects VLC media player versions up to 3.0.7.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious media file that triggers the heap-based buffer over-read when processed by VLC.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-13962 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update VLC to the latest version to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid opening media files from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and apply patches as soon as they are available.