CVE-2005-1544 in libTIFF
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in libTIFF before 3.7.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a TIFF file with a malformed BitsPerSample tag.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-1544 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the libTIFF library version 3.7.1 and earlier. This issue specifically targets the processing of TIFF image files when handling the BitsPerSample tag, which is a standard component used to define the number of bits per sample in image data. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and bounds checking during the parsing of this particular tag within TIFF file structures. When a maliciously crafted TIFF file containing an improperly formatted BitsPerSample tag is processed by vulnerable software, the library fails to properly validate the tag's contents, leading to an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory on the stack.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the way libTIFF handles the BitsPerSample tag during image file parsing operations. The tag is designed to specify how many bits are used to represent each sample in the image data, but when this information is malformed or exceeds expected boundaries, the library's parsing routine does not adequately verify the data length before copying it into a fixed-size stack buffer. This classic buffer overflow condition allows an attacker to overwrite return addresses and other critical stack data, potentially enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the process running the vulnerable library. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered remotely through web-based applications or any system that processes TIFF files without proper input sanitization, making it a prime target for exploitation in various attack scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it can be leveraged in numerous attack vectors that align with the tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the 'Execution' and 'Persistence' domains. Systems that rely on libTIFF for image processing, including web servers, content management systems, and digital asset management platforms, become immediately vulnerable to remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability affects a wide range of applications and operating systems that utilize the libTIFF library, including but not limited to image viewers, document management systems, and various server applications that handle TIFF file uploads or processing. The exploitability is enhanced by the fact that TIFF files are commonly used in web environments, making them an attractive target for attackers seeking to compromise web servers or web-based applications that process user-uploaded content without proper validation mechanisms.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigation strategies including upgrading to libTIFF version 3.7.2 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the buffer overflow condition. Additionally, implementing input validation measures at application level can provide defense-in-depth protection against malformed TIFF files even if the underlying library is not immediately upgradeable. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of insufficient input validation that allows attackers to manipulate program execution flow. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect suspicious TIFF file processing activities. Regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs should include checks for libTIFF versions across all systems to ensure comprehensive protection against this and similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities that could be exploited for privilege escalation or persistent access to compromised systems.