CVE-2006-0053 in Imager
Summary
by MITRE
Imager (libimager-perl) before 0.50 allows user-assisted attackers to cause a denial of service (segmentation fault) by writing a 2- or 4-channel JPEG image (or a 2-channel TGA image) to a scalar, which triggers a NULL pointer dereference.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-0053 affects the Imager library version 0.50 and earlier, specifically within the libimager-perl component used for image processing in perl applications. This issue represents a classic buffer overflow condition that manifests through improper memory management during image file parsing operations. The flaw occurs when the library attempts to process specific image formats with particular channel configurations, creating a scenario where memory access violations can be triggered by maliciously crafted image data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory handling within the image parsing routines of the Imager library. When processing 2- or 4-channel JPEG images or 2-channel TGA images, the library fails to properly initialize or validate pointer references, leading to a NULL pointer dereference condition. This type of error falls under the CWE-476 category of NULL Pointer Dereference, where a program attempts to access memory through a pointer that has not been properly initialized. The segmentation fault occurs because the application tries to execute code at an invalid memory address when it encounters these specific image formats with their particular channel configurations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as it creates a potential attack vector for malicious actors who can remotely trigger system instability. Attackers can craft specially formatted images that, when processed by applications relying on libimager-perl, will cause segmentation faults and application crashes. This affects any perl application that utilizes the Imager library for image handling, potentially including web applications, image processing servers, and content management systems. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in web environments where users can upload images, as it allows for remote code execution possibilities through carefully constructed image payloads that could lead to system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems to upgrade to version 0.50 or later of the Imager library where the NULL pointer dereference has been addressed. System administrators should implement strict image validation processes that verify image integrity before processing, including checking file headers and ensuring proper channel configurations. Additionally, applications using libimager-perl should implement proper error handling and memory validation routines to prevent the propagation of malformed image data. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1499 sub-technique of Network Denial of Service, where adversaries leverage software weaknesses to disrupt service availability. Organizations should also consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for image processing operations and monitoring for unusual segmentation fault patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.