CVE-2009-4227 in Xfig
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the read_1_3_textobject function in f_readold.c in Xfig 3.2.5b and earlier, and in the read_textobject function in read1_3.c in fig2dev in Transfig 3.2.5a and earlier, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string in a malformed .fig file that uses the 1.3 file format. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/27/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-4227 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow affecting widely used graphics manipulation software. This flaw exists in Xfig version 3.2.5b and earlier, as well as in Transfig version 3.2.5a and earlier, specifically within their file parsing mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation when processing malformed .fig files that utilize the 1.3 file format, creating a pathway for remote code execution through carefully crafted malicious input.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within two distinct functions that handle file parsing operations. The read_1_3_textobject function in f_readold.c and the read_textobject function in read1_3.c demonstrate poor boundary checking mechanisms that fail to validate string lengths before copying data to fixed-size stack buffers. This classic buffer overflow condition arises when attacker-controlled input exceeds the allocated buffer space, causing adjacent memory to be overwritten and potentially allowing execution flow redirection. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates during file parsing operations that are commonly encountered in networked environments where users might receive or open files from untrusted sources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. When exploited, the buffer overflow can lead to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the user running the affected software, potentially enabling privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability affects software commonly used in graphic design and technical documentation workflows, making it particularly attractive to attackers who can leverage it through social engineering campaigns targeting users of these applications. The remote attack vector means that users do not need to interact with the malicious file directly, as simply opening a crafted .fig file can trigger the exploit.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate software updates and patches from the respective vendors, as the affected versions are no longer supported and contain known security weaknesses. System administrators should implement strict file validation policies and consider sandboxing mechanisms for file processing applications. Network-based defenses should include filtering of .fig file types at network boundaries and implementing application whitelisting to prevent execution of vulnerable software. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, representing a fundamental flaw in memory management practices that violates secure coding principles. The attack pattern follows typical exploitation techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 sub-technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as successful exploitation would likely involve executing malicious code through the compromised application. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools to identify systems running affected versions and establish incident response procedures to handle potential exploitation attempts.