CVE-2024-42415 is an integer overflow vulnerability identified in version 1.14.52 of the GNOME Project's G Structured File Library (libgsf), specifically within the Compound Document Binary File format parser. The vulnerability arises when processing the sector allocation table of a specially crafted file, causing an integer overflow or wraparound (CWE-190). This integer overflow leads to a heap-based buffer overflow condition, which can be exploited by an attacker to achieve arbitrary code execution on the affected system. The attack vector requires the victim to process a maliciously crafted compound document file, which could be delivered via email, downloads, or other file transfer methods. No privileges or user interaction are required to exploit this vulnerability, increasing its risk profile. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by allowing remote code execution, potentially leading to full system compromise. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.4, reflecting high severity with low attack complexity and no privileges or user interaction needed. Although no public exploits are currently known, the vulnerability's nature and impact make it a critical concern for systems using libgsf, particularly in GNOME desktop environments and applications that parse compound document files. The lack of an official patch at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate mitigation steps to reduce exposure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a significant risk, especially those utilizing GNOME-based Linux distributions or applications that rely on libgsf for document parsing. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to gain control over affected systems, steal sensitive data, disrupt services, or move laterally within networks. This is particularly concerning for sectors such as government, finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, where confidentiality and availability are paramount. The vulnerability's ability to be triggered without user interaction or privileges increases the likelihood of automated or targeted attacks. Additionally, organizations that handle large volumes of compound document files or receive files from external sources are at heightened risk. The potential for supply chain attacks or spear-phishing campaigns leveraging this vulnerability could amplify its impact across European enterprises.

1. Immediately audit and identify all systems and applications using libgsf version 1.14.52 and assess exposure to compound document file processing. 2. Restrict or block processing of untrusted or unsolicited compound document files, especially from external sources. 3. Employ sandboxing or containerization techniques for applications that parse compound document files to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 4. Monitor file handling and system logs for unusual activity related to compound document files or libgsf usage. 5. Apply strict network segmentation to isolate critical systems that may process these files. 6. Engage with GNOME Project or relevant maintainers for patches or updates and plan for rapid deployment once available. 7. Educate users about the risks of opening files from untrusted sources and implement email filtering to reduce malicious file delivery. 8. Consider deploying runtime application self-protection (RASP) or endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting exploitation attempts targeting heap overflows.