CVE-2007-3568 in imlib
Summary
by MITRE
The _LoadBMP function in imlib 1.9.15 and earlier allows context-dependent attackers to cause a denial of service (infinite loop) via a BMP image with a Bits Per Page (BPP) value of 0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3568 represents a critical denial of service flaw within the imlib library version 1.9.15 and earlier implementations. This issue specifically affects the _LoadBMP function which processes bitmap image files, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted BMP images can trigger infinite loop conditions in the affected software systems. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and error handling within the bitmap loading mechanism, particularly when processing the Bits Per Page field in BMP file headers.
The technical flaw manifests when the _LoadBMP function encounters a BMP image file containing a Bits Per Page (BPP) value of zero. This particular value creates a condition where the function's internal loop structures become indefinitely trapped, as the zero BPP value prevents proper calculation of pixel data offsets and memory allocation parameters. The function fails to implement proper boundary checks or value validation before entering iterative processing loops, allowing the malformed input to cause system resources to be consumed indefinitely. This behavior constitutes a classic denial of service vulnerability where legitimate system operations are disrupted through the exploitation of improper input handling mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption, as it can be leveraged by context-dependent attackers to consume system resources and potentially cause application crashes or system instability. When applications utilizing imlib for image processing encounter malformed BMP files with zero BPP values, they become vulnerable to indefinite resource consumption, leading to system performance degradation or complete service unavailability. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in web applications, image processing services, and any environment where user-uploaded BMP images are processed without proper validation, as it can be exploited to create sustained denial of service conditions against target systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-3568 should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and error handling within the affected library functions. System administrators should prioritize updating to imlib versions 1.9.16 and later, where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper validation of the Bits Per Page field and implementation of appropriate loop termination conditions. Additionally, applications should implement defensive programming practices including bounds checking, input sanitization, and timeout mechanisms when processing image files. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array indices, and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1499.004 for network denial of service, representing a significant risk to system availability and operational continuity in environments where image processing is a core function.