CVE-2024-36618 is a vulnerability identified in FFmpeg version 6.1.1, specifically within the AVI demuxer component of the libavformat library. The flaw is an integer overflow (CWE-190) that occurs when processing crafted AVI files. Integer overflows can cause incorrect memory allocation or buffer handling, leading to application crashes or denial-of-service conditions. In this case, the vulnerability allows an attacker to cause a DoS by supplying a malicious AVI file that triggers the overflow during demuxing. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.2 (medium severity), with an attack vector of local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), and impact limited to availability (A:H). This means an attacker must have local access to the system or the ability to supply files locally to trigger the vulnerability. There is no impact on confidentiality or integrity. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and no patches are currently available. The vulnerability was reserved in May 2024 and published in November 2024. FFmpeg is widely used in multimedia processing, streaming, and broadcasting applications, often integrated into larger software stacks. The vulnerability could be exploited in environments where untrusted AVI files are processed, such as media servers, content ingestion pipelines, or user-facing applications that accept media uploads.

For European organizations, the primary impact is the potential for denial-of-service conditions in systems processing AVI media files using FFmpeg 6.1.1. This could disrupt media streaming services, content delivery networks, broadcasting operations, or any application relying on FFmpeg for media handling. Although the vulnerability does not compromise data confidentiality or integrity, availability disruptions can lead to service outages, operational delays, and reputational damage. Organizations in media production, broadcasting, telecommunications, and software development sectors are particularly at risk. Additionally, embedded systems or IoT devices using FFmpeg for media processing could be affected, potentially impacting critical infrastructure if these devices are in use. The local attack vector limits remote exploitation, but scenarios where users upload or transfer AVI files to internal systems could be leveraged by attackers to trigger the DoS. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat once the vulnerability becomes public knowledge.

1. Monitor FFmpeg project communications and security advisories for the release of an official patch addressing CVE-2024-36618 and apply updates promptly. 2. Until patched, restrict or disable processing of untrusted AVI files in applications and services using FFmpeg 6.1.1. 3. Implement input validation and file integrity checks to detect malformed or suspicious AVI files before processing. 4. Employ sandboxing or containerization techniques to isolate media processing components, limiting the impact of potential crashes. 5. For media ingestion pipelines, enforce strict access controls and scanning of uploaded files to prevent malicious content from reaching vulnerable components. 6. Consider upgrading to a later FFmpeg version if available and confirmed to be unaffected by this vulnerability. 7. Conduct internal audits to identify all systems and applications using FFmpeg 6.1.1 to ensure comprehensive mitigation coverage. 8. Educate relevant personnel about the risks of processing untrusted media files and the importance of timely patching.