CVE-2004-1265 in Convex 3d
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the readObjectChunk function in 3dsimp.cpp for the convex-tool program in Convex 3D 0.8pre1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted 3DS file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/22/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1265 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the convex-tool program version 0.8pre1, specifically within the 3dsimp.cpp source file. This issue manifests in the readObjectChunk function where insufficient input validation occurs when processing 3DS file formats. The vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking mechanisms that fail to adequately verify the size of data being read from maliciously crafted 3DS files, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The convex-tool program's processing of 3DS files through the readObjectChunk function does not properly validate the length of object chunks within the file structure, enabling an attacker to craft a specially formatted 3DS file that triggers memory corruption when the program attempts to read beyond allocated buffer boundaries. This flaw operates at the intersection of improper input validation and memory management, creating a pathway for privilege escalation and system compromise.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations utilizing Convex 3D software for 3D graphics processing and modeling tasks. Remote attackers can exploit this weakness by simply enticing users to open maliciously crafted 3DS files through the vulnerable convex-tool application, requiring no special privileges or prior access to the target system. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially allow full system compromise, as successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable application. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where 3DS file processing is common, such as graphic design studios, animation studios, or any organization processing 3D content files.
The exploitation of this vulnerability maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1203, which covers legitimate program execution through the exploitation of system vulnerabilities, and T1068, which involves the use of elevated privileges gained through exploitation. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of Convex 3D software, implementing strict file validation procedures for 3DS files, and employing sandboxing mechanisms for processing untrusted 3D content. Network-based mitigations such as content filtering and file extension restrictions can help prevent exploitation attempts, while application whitelisting and privilege separation can limit the potential damage from successful attacks. Additionally, regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in legacy software systems that may be vulnerable to similar buffer overflow conditions.