CVE-2007-2193 in Photo Editor
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the ID_X.apl plugin in ACDSee 9.0 Build 108, Pro 8.1 Build 99, and Photo Editor 4.0 Build 195 allows user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted XPM file with a long section string. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2193 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the ID_X.apl plugin component of several ACDSee software versions including ACDSee 9.0 Build 108, Pro 8.1 Build 99, and Photo Editor 4.0 Build 195. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the image processing pipeline, specifically when handling XPM (X PixMap) image files. The flaw manifests when the software encounters a crafted XPM file containing an excessively long section string that exceeds the allocated buffer space on the stack. This particular vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a severe memory corruption vulnerability that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The attack vector is user-assisted remote exploitation, meaning that an attacker must convince a victim to open a maliciously crafted XPM file, typically through social engineering or compromised websites.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs during the parsing of XPM image format specifications where the ID_X.apl plugin fails to properly validate the length of section strings within the file structure. When the software processes a maliciously constructed XPM file, it attempts to copy the overly long section string into a fixed-size stack buffer without adequate bounds checking. This buffer overflow condition allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations including return addresses and function parameters. The overflow can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow to malicious code injected into the stack, effectively enabling remote code execution with the privileges of the affected application. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 sub-technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically targeting application execution and privilege escalation vectors.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-2193 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data theft. When successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to systems running vulnerable ACDSee software versions, potentially enabling them to install malware, modify system files, or establish persistent backdoors. The attack requires minimal user interaction beyond opening the malicious file, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or compromised web environments. Organizations using these specific software versions face significant risk exposure as the vulnerability affects widely deployed image processing applications. The memory corruption nature of the flaw also introduces potential for system crashes or denial of service conditions, though the primary concern remains the arbitrary code execution capability that can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2193 should focus on immediate software updates and patch management protocols. The most effective solution involves upgrading to patched versions of ACDSee software where the ID_X.apl plugin has been updated to implement proper input validation and buffer size checking mechanisms. System administrators should also implement restrictive file type handling policies that prevent automatic execution of potentially malicious image files, particularly in enterprise environments. Network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help detect and block malicious XPM files before they reach end-user systems. Additionally, security awareness training for users to recognize suspicious file attachments and avoid opening untrusted image files represents a crucial defense layer. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation in image processing libraries and the need for robust buffer management practices in multimedia applications, aligning with security best practices outlined in various cybersecurity frameworks including NIST SP 800-160 and ISO/IEC 27001 standards for secure software development lifecycle implementation.