CVE-2007-2459 in Imager
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the BMP reader (bmp.c) in Imager perl module (libimager-perl) 0.45 through 0.56 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (application crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via crafted 8-bit/pixel compressed BMP files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/05/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-2459 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow affecting the Imager perl module version 0.45 through 0.56. This issue specifically resides within the BMP reader component located in the bmp.c file, which processes bitmap image files. The flaw manifests when the module encounters crafted 8-bit per pixel compressed BMP files, creating a scenario where memory corruption can occur during image parsing operations. The vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which encompasses heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it can lead to arbitrary code execution when properly crafted malicious input is processed by the vulnerable application.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of BMP file structures, specifically targeting the compression handling logic within the Imager module. When a compressed 8-bit per pixel BMP file is processed, the module fails to properly validate the size parameters of the compressed data segments, leading to a situation where the heap allocation does not match the actual data being written. This mismatch allows attackers to write beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially overwriting critical memory structures including return addresses, function pointers, or other control data. The attack vector is remote, meaning that an attacker can deliver malicious BMP files through web services, email attachments, or file sharing systems without requiring local access to the target system. The vulnerability can be classified under the MITRE ATT&CK framework as a code injection technique, specifically targeting memory corruption vulnerabilities in third-party libraries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as it presents a potential path for complete system compromise. When exploited successfully, the buffer overflow can cause application crashes that result in service disruption, but more critically, it can enable attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. This capability allows for privilege escalation, data exfiltration, or further lateral movement within a network. The affected environment typically includes systems running perl applications that utilize the libimager-perl module for image processing, particularly web applications, content management systems, or any platform that accepts user-uploaded BMP files without proper validation. Organizations using vulnerable versions of the Imager module are at risk of remote code execution when processing untrusted image data, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for publicly accessible services.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2459 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected libimager-perl module to versions that address the heap overflow conditions in the BMP reader component. System administrators should implement input validation measures that restrict or sanitize BMP file uploads, particularly focusing on compression parameters and pixel format specifications. Network-level defenses can include implementing file type restrictions, content inspection systems, and monitoring for suspicious file upload activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper bounds checking in image processing libraries and highlights the need for regular security assessments of third-party components. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that limit which image processing modules can be executed, and establish robust incident response procedures to address potential exploitation attempts. Regular security updates and vulnerability management programs are essential to prevent similar issues in other components of the software stack, particularly given that this vulnerability affects a widely used perl image processing library that may be integrated into numerous applications across different platforms.