CVE-2022-41742 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

NGINX Open Source before versions 1.23.2 and 1.22.1, NGINX Open Source Subscription before versions R2 P1 and R1 P1, and NGINX Plus before versions R27 P1 and R26 P1 have a vulnerability in the module ngx_http_mp4_module that might allow a local attacker to cause a worker process crash, or might result in worker process memory disclosure by using a specially crafted audio or video file. The issue affects only NGINX products that are built with the module ngx_http_mp4_module, when the mp4 directive is used in the configuration file. Further, the attack is possible only if an attacker can trigger processing of a specially crafted audio or video file with the module ngx_http_mp4_module.

Understanding CVE-2022-41742

This section provides an insight into the CVE-2022-41742 vulnerability affecting NGINX products.

What is CVE-2022-41742?

CVE-2022-41742 is a vulnerability in the NGINX module ngx_http_mp4_module that allows a local attacker to crash a worker process or disclose memory via a specially crafted audio or video file.

The Impact of CVE-2022-41742

The vulnerability could result in a worker process crash or memory disclosure, affecting NGINX versions before 1.23.2, 1.22.1, R2 P1, R1 P1, R27 P1, and R26 P1 when using the mp4 directive.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-41742

This section delves into the specifics of the CVE-2022-41742 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in ngx_http_mp4_module can be exploited by a local attacker by manipulating audio or video files, affecting worker processes.

Affected Systems and Versions

NGINX products, including NGINX, NGINX Plus, and NGINX Open Source Subscription, are vulnerable if running versions before 1.23.2, 1.22.1, R27 P1, R26 P1, R2 P1, and R1 P1 respectively.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2022-41742 requires the attacker to use a specially crafted audio or video file to trigger processing with the ngx_http_mp4_module.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2022-41742 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update NGINX to versions 1.23.2, 1.22.1, R27 P1, R26 P1, R2 P1, or R1 P1 to mitigate the vulnerability. Additionally, review and restrict access to the mp4 directive configuration.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement regular security checks, restrict file upload capabilities, and educate users on safe file handling practices.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates from NGINX and apply patches promptly to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.