CVE-2020-14212 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

FFmpeg through 4.3 has a heap-based buffer overflow in avio_get_str in libavformat/aviobuf.c due to an omitted index check in ff_dnn_load_model_native called by dnn_backend_native.c.

Understanding CVE-2020-14212

What is CVE-2020-14212?

FFmpeg through version 4.3 is vulnerable to a heap-based buffer overflow in avio_get_str in libavformat/aviobuf.c. This vulnerability arises from a missing index check in the function ff_dnn_load_model_native, which is invoked by dnn_backend_native.c.

The Impact of CVE-2020-14212

This vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by exploiting the heap-based buffer overflow.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-14212

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in FFmpeg through version 4.3 results from a heap-based buffer overflow in avio_get_str in libavformat/aviobuf.c due to a missing index check in ff_dnn_load_model_native called by dnn_backend_native.c.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: FFmpeg
Versions affected: Through version 4.3

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting a malicious input that triggers the heap-based buffer overflow, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest security patches provided by FFmpeg to address the vulnerability.
Consider implementing appropriate input validation mechanisms to prevent buffer overflows.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and code reviews to identify and address potential security flaws.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that FFmpeg is updated to version 4.4 or later to eliminate the heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability.