CVE-2024-7055 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the widely used multimedia framework FFmpeg, affecting versions 7.0.0 and 7.0.1. The vulnerability resides in the pnm_decode_frame function of the pnm decoder module (/libavcodec/pnmdec.c). This function improperly handles certain crafted Portable Anymap (PNM) image inputs, leading to a heap overflow condition. Because the vulnerability is triggered remotely without requiring authentication or user interaction, attackers can exploit it by sending maliciously crafted media files or streams that FFmpeg processes. The overflow can corrupt heap memory, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, cause denial of service via application crashes, or manipulate data integrity. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 6.9, reflecting medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, and no privileges or user interaction needed. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on August 6, 2024, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild yet. The recommended remediation is to upgrade FFmpeg to version 7.0.2, which contains the patch addressing this heap overflow. Given FFmpeg's extensive use in media servers, streaming platforms, video editing software, and embedded devices, this vulnerability poses a significant risk if unpatched. Organizations should also audit their use of FFmpeg in automated media processing workflows and consider additional input validation or sandboxing to mitigate exploitation risks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-7055 can be substantial, especially for those relying on FFmpeg in media processing, streaming services, content delivery networks, and multimedia applications. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, allowing attackers to compromise systems, exfiltrate sensitive data, or disrupt services. This can affect confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical media infrastructure. Industries such as broadcasting, telecommunications, online media platforms, and software vendors integrating FFmpeg are particularly at risk. The vulnerability's remote exploitability without authentication increases the attack surface, potentially enabling widespread exploitation if weaponized. Additionally, embedded devices and IoT products using FFmpeg for media decoding in European markets could be targeted, leading to broader operational disruptions. The public disclosure and availability of the vulnerability details heighten the urgency for patching to prevent exploitation attempts.

1. Immediately upgrade all FFmpeg instances to version 7.0.2 or later to apply the official patch addressing the heap overflow. 2. Audit all applications and services that utilize FFmpeg for media decoding or processing to identify vulnerable versions. 3. Implement network-level filtering to restrict or monitor incoming media streams from untrusted sources. 4. Employ sandboxing or containerization for media processing components to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 5. Integrate input validation and sanitization for media files before processing with FFmpeg, where feasible. 6. Monitor logs and network traffic for anomalous activity indicative of exploitation attempts targeting media processing pipelines. 7. Coordinate with vendors and third-party service providers to ensure they have applied the patch or mitigations. 8. Maintain an incident response plan tailored to media infrastructure compromise scenarios.