CVE-2004-0753 in gdk-pixbuf
Summary
by MITRE
The BMP image processor for (1) gdk-pixbuf before 0.22 and (2) gtk2 before 2.2.4 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (infinite loop) via a crafted BMP file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-0753 represents a critical denial of service flaw affecting image processing components within the gdk-pixbuf library and gtk2 framework. This issue specifically targets the BMP (Bitmap) image format parser, which is widely used for handling raster graphics in various applications. The vulnerability exists in versions of gdk-pixbuf prior to 0.22 and gtk2 prior to 2.2.4, indicating it was present in the core graphics processing libraries that form the foundation of many graphical user interfaces and image handling applications. The flaw manifests when these libraries process specially crafted BMP files that contain malformed data structures designed to trigger infinite loop conditions during parsing operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the BMP parser logic. When a maliciously crafted BMP file is processed, the parser enters an infinite loop due to malformed header values or corrupted data structures that cause the parsing algorithm to continuously iterate without proper termination conditions. This occurs because the parser fails to implement proper bounds checking and validation mechanisms when interpreting the image file's metadata and pixel data structures. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-835: Loop with Unreachable Exit Condition, which directly relates to the infinite loop behavior that prevents normal program execution. The flaw demonstrates poor defensive programming practices where the code does not adequately handle unexpected or malformed input data, leading to resource exhaustion and system instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption to potentially compromise entire systems that rely on image processing capabilities. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability by delivering malicious BMP files through various attack vectors including web browsers, email attachments, or file sharing systems. When an application using the affected gdk-pixbuf or gtk2 libraries processes the malicious file, the infinite loop consumes excessive CPU resources and can cause the application to become unresponsive or crash entirely. This creates a significant denial of service condition that can affect user experience and potentially provide attackers with opportunities to perform further exploitation or system compromise. The vulnerability affects not only individual applications but also entire desktop environments and server applications that depend on these core graphics libraries for image handling functionality.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-0753 primarily focus on immediate version updates and implementation of proper input validation measures. System administrators should prioritize updating gdk-pixbuf to version 0.22 or later and gtk2 to version 2.2.4 or higher to eliminate the vulnerable code paths. Additionally, implementing content filtering mechanisms that scan image files for known malicious patterns or implementing strict file format validation can provide additional protection layers. Security practitioners should also consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify and block suspicious BMP file transfers. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper software supply chain security and the need for regular security audits of core libraries. Organizations should also implement application sandboxing techniques and restrict image processing capabilities to trusted sources only. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.001: Network Denial of Service, emphasizing the need for robust input validation and proper error handling in image processing components. The fix demonstrates the critical importance of defensive programming practices and proper resource management in preventing denial of service attacks through malformed input data.