CVE-2005-3350 in libungif
Summary
by MITRE
libungif library before 4.1.0 allows attackers to corrupt memory and possibly execute arbitrary code via a crafted GIF file that leads to an out-of-bounds write.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2021
The libungif library vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3350 represents a critical memory corruption flaw that affects versions prior to 4.1.0. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the GIF file parsing mechanism, specifically when processing malformed image data. The issue manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs when the library encounters specially crafted GIF files designed to exploit the parsing routines. Such vulnerabilities fall under the common weakness enumeration CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and are particularly dangerous because they can be triggered through legitimate file processing operations. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution risk since an attacker can craft a malicious GIF file that, when processed by an application using the vulnerable library, will cause memory corruption.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the libungif library attempts to parse a crafted GIF file containing malformed data structures that cause the parser to write beyond allocated memory boundaries. When an application loads or processes such a file through the vulnerable library, the out-of-bounds write can overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting critical program data, function pointers, or return addresses. This memory corruption can lead to unpredictable program behavior, application crashes, or more seriously, arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because GIF files are commonly used in web applications, email attachments, and various multimedia applications, making the attack surface quite broad. The exploitation requires no special privileges beyond being able to influence the processing of a GIF file, which can be achieved through web-based attacks, file uploads, or social engineering tactics.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-3350 extends across numerous applications and systems that depend on the libungif library for GIF image handling. Any software that processes GIF files, including web browsers, image viewers, content management systems, email clients, and multimedia applications, could be vulnerable to remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability aligns with the attack pattern described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique of code injection, specifically targeting memory corruption vulnerabilities that enable arbitrary code execution. The risk is particularly elevated in web environments where users may unknowingly download or view malicious GIF files, as the vulnerability can be exploited through simple web browsing or file attachment processing. Organizations using affected software may experience complete system compromise, data breaches, or service disruption, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for internet-facing applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3350 focus on immediate remediation through library updates and comprehensive system hardening. The primary and most effective solution involves upgrading to libungif version 4.1.0 or later, which includes proper bounds checking and input validation mechanisms that prevent the out-of-bounds write conditions. System administrators should also implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems that can detect and block suspicious GIF file content. Additionally, applications should be configured to process GIF files with strict validation and sanitization routines, and users should be educated about the risks of downloading or opening untrusted image files. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping third-party libraries updated and implementing robust input validation controls, as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security principles. Organizations should also consider implementing memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries and address space layout randomization to reduce the impact of potential exploitation attempts.