CVE-2007-1463 in Inkscape
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in Inkscape before 0.45.1 allows user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in a URI, which is not properly handled by certain dialogs.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/17/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1463 represents a critical format string vulnerability within the Inkscape vector graphics editor software. This flaw exists in versions prior to 0.45.1 and stems from improper handling of format string specifiers within URI parameters processed by specific dialog components. The vulnerability creates a dangerous condition where user-supplied input containing format string directives can be interpreted and executed by the application's string formatting functions, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The issue specifically manifests when Inkscape processes URIs containing format specifiers such as %s, %d, or other printf-style directives within dialog interfaces that fail to properly sanitize or escape these inputs before processing.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a user-assisted remote attack vector where an attacker crafts a malicious URI containing format string specifiers that, when processed by Inkscape's dialog handlers, can cause the application to interpret memory contents as executable code. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-134, which specifically addresses the use of format strings with user-supplied data without proper validation or sanitization. The flaw demonstrates a classic buffer overflow condition where format string specifiers can overwrite memory locations, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate program execution flow. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through normal user interactions with URI handling within the application's graphical interface, making it accessible to remote attackers without requiring local system access.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a severe security risk for users who may unknowingly open malicious files or visit compromised websites that contain crafted URIs. The remote code execution capability means that attackers could potentially gain complete control over affected systems, install malware, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of Inkscape's URI processing mechanisms, particularly impacting dialog boxes and input validation routines that handle external references. Attackers could leverage this weakness to execute malicious payloads through specially crafted SVG files or web content that references malicious URIs. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it requires minimal user interaction beyond normal software usage, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently open external graphics files or browse the web.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1463 involve immediate patching of Inkscape installations to version 0.45.1 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for proper format string handling. Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization measures for all URI processing within the application, ensuring that format specifiers are properly escaped or removed before string processing occurs. System administrators should consider implementing network-level protections such as web application firewalls and URI filtering mechanisms to prevent malicious URIs from reaching vulnerable systems. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the ATT&CK framework, particularly in the context of input validation and output encoding techniques. Regular security assessments and code reviews should focus on identifying similar format string vulnerabilities in other applications, as this class of weakness remains prevalent in software development practices and continues to represent a significant threat vector in modern computing environments.