CVE-2004-1279 in jpegtoavi
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the get_file_list_stdin function in jpegtoavi 1.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted set of JPEG files and filenames.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1279 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the jpegtoavi 1.5 software utility, specifically within the get_file_list_stdin function. This software serves as a utility for converting jpeg image sequences into avi video files, making it a tool commonly used in multimedia processing workflows. The buffer overflow occurs when the application processes input through standard input, particularly when handling a series of jpeg files and their associated filenames. The flaw arises from insufficient bounds checking during the processing of user-supplied data, allowing an attacker to craft malicious input that exceeds the allocated buffer space. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited remotely, meaning attackers do not need physical access to the target system to carry out the attack.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation mechanisms within the jpegtoavi utility. When the get_file_list_stdin function processes filenames and associated data from standard input, it fails to adequately verify the length of incoming data before copying it into fixed-size buffers. This classic buffer overflow condition creates an opportunity for attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially including return addresses or other critical program structures. The attack vector involves constructing a specially crafted set of jpeg filenames that, when processed by the vulnerable software, trigger the overflow condition. This allows malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the jpegtoavi utility, typically resulting in complete system compromise. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a prime example of how improper input handling can lead to remote code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple exploitation, as it affects systems where jpegtoavi is deployed for processing image sequences. Organizations using this utility in automated workflows, web applications, or multimedia processing pipelines face significant risk from remote code execution capabilities. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including web-based interfaces that utilize the utility, email attachments processed through image conversion tools, or even through compromised web services that accept image uploads. The remote execution capability means that attackers can potentially gain unauthorized access to systems without requiring physical presence or local network access. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where the software operates with elevated privileges or in automated processing environments where untrusted input is regularly processed. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, specifically targeting the execution of arbitrary code through buffer overflow exploitation techniques.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1279 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to a patched version of jpegtoavi or replacing the vulnerable utility with a more secure alternative. Organizations should also implement input validation measures that enforce strict length limits on all user-supplied data, particularly when processing file lists or sequences. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of systems running vulnerable software, while regular security audits should monitor for any unauthorized installations. Additionally, deploying intrusion detection systems that can identify attempts to exploit buffer overflow vulnerabilities can provide early warning of potential attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in preventing remote code execution attacks, reinforcing security best practices that align with industry standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.