CVE-2004-0691 in Trolltech
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the BMP image format parser for the QT library (qt3) before 3.3.3 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (application crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-0691 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the Qt3 library's BMP image format parser, affecting versions prior to 3.3.3. This flaw exists in the handling of bitmap image files and demonstrates a classic memory corruption vulnerability that can be exploited remotely. The Qt3 library, widely used for cross-platform application development, processes various image formats including BMP through its built-in image handling capabilities. When parsing malformed BMP files, the parser fails to properly validate input data boundaries, leading to memory corruption that can result in unpredictable behavior.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking during the parsing of BMP headers and image data structures. BMP format specification defines various fields including file headers, information headers, and pixel data that must be carefully validated. When an attacker crafts a malicious BMP file with oversized or malformed fields, the Qt3 library's parser attempts to allocate heap memory based on incorrect size calculations derived from the malformed input. This heap allocation failure creates a buffer overflow condition where subsequent memory operations can overwrite adjacent heap chunks, potentially corrupting program state or executing arbitrary code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass potential remote code execution capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by delivering malicious BMP files through web content, email attachments, or file sharing systems where Qt3-based applications process image files. Applications using Qt3 libraries such as web browsers, image viewers, or multimedia players become vulnerable when they encounter crafted BMP files. The exploitation can lead to application crashes, system instability, or in more sophisticated attack scenarios, complete system compromise through code execution in the context of the affected application process.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1203, specifically exploitation of remote services through malformed input data. The attack surface is broad given Qt3's widespread adoption across numerous applications and platforms, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous. Organizations using Qt3 libraries should prioritize immediate patching to version 3.3.3 or later, as this release includes proper bounds checking and input validation mechanisms. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization at application level and deploying network-based intrusion detection systems can provide additional defense-in-depth measures against exploitation attempts.