CVE-2020-36646 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been discovered in MediaArea ZenLib up to version 0.4.38, affecting the Ztring::Date_From_Seconds_1970_Local function in the Ztring.cpp file. This vulnerability allows for unchecked return value to null pointer dereference. Upgrading to version 0.4.39 is recommended to mitigate this issue.

Understanding CVE-2020-36646

This CVE involves an unchecked return value leading to null pointer dereference in MediaArea ZenLib.

What is CVE-2020-36646?

The vulnerability in MediaArea ZenLib up to version 0.4.38 allows manipulation of arguments to cause unchecked return value to null pointer dereference.

The Impact of CVE-2020-36646

The vulnerability can be exploited to trigger null pointer dereference, potentially leading to a denial of service or arbitrary code execution.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-36646

MediaArea ZenLib up to version 0.4.38 is affected by this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the Ztring::Date_From_Seconds_1970_Local function in the Ztring.cpp file, allowing for unchecked return value to null pointer dereference.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: MediaArea
Product: ZenLib
Affected Versions: 0.4.0 to 0.4.38

Exploitation Mechanism

By manipulating the argument 'Value' in the affected function, attackers can exploit the vulnerability to trigger null pointer dereference.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade the ZenLib component to version 0.4.39 to fix the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software components to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply the patch identified as 6475fcccd37c9cf17e0cfe263b5fe0e2e47a8408 to address the CVE-2020-36646 vulnerability.