CVE-2004-1065 in PHP
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the exif_read_data function in PHP before 4.3.10 and PHP 5.x up to 5.0.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long section name in an image file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1065 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the exif_read_data function of PHP versions prior to 4.3.10 and PHP 5.x versions up to 5.0.2. This vulnerability resides in the handling of image metadata, specifically when processing EXIF data embedded within image files such as JPEG images. The flaw occurs when the application processes a malformed image file containing an excessively long section name in the EXIF metadata, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited by remote attackers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the exif_read_data function, which is responsible for parsing and extracting metadata from image files. When processing an image with a malformed section name exceeding predetermined buffer limits, the function fails to properly validate input length, resulting in a classic buffer overflow condition. This allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with malicious data, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected PHP process. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through web applications that process user-uploaded images, making it exploitable via remote code execution attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to gain complete control over affected web servers running vulnerable PHP versions. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious payloads, escalate privileges, establish persistent backdoors, or perform further reconnaissance within the compromised network. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no special privileges or authentication, as the vulnerability can be exploited through normal web application usage when processing image uploads. This makes it a significant threat to web applications that handle user-generated content, image galleries, or any functionality that processes image metadata.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to PHP versions 4.3.10 or later for PHP 4.x installations and PHP 5.0.3 or later for PHP 5.x deployments. Additionally, input validation should be strengthened at application level to reject images with suspicious metadata structures, and web applications should employ proper error handling and memory management practices. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for remote code execution through web applications. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual image processing patterns and potential exploitation attempts through malformed image uploads, as this vulnerability represents a common target for automated exploitation tools in the cybersecurity landscape.