CVE-2009-0246 in easyHDR
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in easyHDR PRO 1.60.2 allows user-assisted attackers to execute arbitrary code via an invalid Radiance RGBE (aka .hdr) file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0246 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within easyHDR PRO version 1.60.2 that enables user-assisted remote code execution through malformed Radiance RGBE image files. This vulnerability resides in the software's handling of .hdr file format processing, which is commonly used for high dynamic range imaging in professional photography and computer graphics applications. The flaw specifically manifests when the application attempts to parse invalid or malformed RGBE header data without proper bounds checking, creating an exploitable condition that can be triggered by manipulating the file structure to exceed allocated stack memory buffers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic stack buffer overflow pattern where insufficient input validation allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the program stack. When easyHDR PRO processes a specially crafted .hdr file containing oversized or malformed header information, the application's parsing routine fails to validate the size of incoming data against allocated buffer boundaries. This allows an attacker to inject malicious code into the stack memory region, potentially overwriting return addresses, function pointers, or other critical execution control data. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which directly enables privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution in the context of the vulnerable application's user session.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data integrity breaches. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain complete control over the victim's system, execute malicious payloads, and potentially escalate privileges to system-level access. The user-assisted nature of this attack means that social engineering or phishing techniques may be required to deliver the malicious .hdr file to an unsuspecting user, but once executed, the consequences can be severe for organizations relying on image processing software. This vulnerability affects not only individual users but also enterprise environments where such software might be used for professional image editing, rendering, or digital asset management processes.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-0246 should prioritize immediate software updates from the vendor, as the vulnerability has been addressed through patches that implement proper input validation and bounds checking. Organizations should also implement network-based security controls including file type filtering and content inspection to prevent malicious .hdr files from reaching end-user systems. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, as the exploitation enables arbitrary code execution through the compromised application. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of untrusted image processing software and establish comprehensive monitoring for unusual file processing activities. Additionally, regular vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar buffer overflow conditions in other image processing libraries and applications that may be susceptible to similar exploitation techniques.