CVE-2021-38171

adts_decode_extradata in libavformat/adtsenc.c in FFmpeg 4.4 does not check the init_get_bits return value, which is a necessary step because the second…

published August 21, 2021

CVSS
—
EPSS
2%
Percentile
84.0
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A simple oversight in FFmpeg 4.4 leaves the door open for crafted arguments. The function `adts_decode_extradata` doesn’t check whether `init_get_bits` returns a valid value, allowing for potential abuse! Think of it like a restaurant accepting any reservation without confirming the customer's ID. If someone sneaks in with a fake ID, they could exploit a system that didn't double-check. Here, the check is an important safeguard — without it, nefarious data could slip through unnoticed. If exploited, an attacker could manipulate the input to cause unexpected behavior within FFmpeg, possibly leading to crashes or corruption of processed data. While no active exploits are reported, this vulnerability poses a risk because it can compromise the function's integrity.

Put simply

Think of it like a restaurant accepting any reservation without confirming the customer's ID. If someone sneaks in with a fake ID, they could exploit a system that didn't double-check. Here, the check is an important safeguard — without it, nefarious data could slip through unnoticed. In FFmpeg 4.4, the `adts_decode_extradata` function fails to validate the return value of `init_get_bits`, which can lead to mishandled data if crafted arguments are used. This lack of validation creates an opportunity for unintended consequences during media processing.

What to do

If exploited, an attacker could manipulate the input to cause unexpected behavior within FFmpeg, possibly leading to crashes or corruption of processed data. While no active exploits are reported, this vulnerability poses a risk because it can compromise the function's integrity. To protect your systems, update FFmpeg to the latest version beyond 4.4, where this issue has been addressed. Regularly check your dependencies and ensure all libraries are up to date to avoid vulnerabilities. You've got this! Stay proactive with updates, and keep your media processing secure! 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.02411 · 84.0th percentile
Published
2021-08-21T00:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 21 AUG 00:00Z
    adts_decode_extradata in libavformat/adtsenc.c in FFmpeg 4.4 does not check the init_get_bits return value, which is a necessary step because the second…
    cvelistv5