CVE-2010-1519 in glpng
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple integer overflows in glpng.c in glpng 1.45 allow context-dependent attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted PNG image, related to (1) the pngLoadRawF function and (2) the pngLoadF function, leading to heap-based buffer overflows.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1519 represents a critical security flaw in the glpng library version 1.45 which is widely used for handling png image files within various software applications. This issue stems from improper input validation and handling of image dimensions within the library's png loading functions, creating conditions where maliciously crafted png files can trigger exploitable memory corruption. The vulnerability specifically affects two core functions within the library: pngLoadRawF and pngLoadF, both of which are responsible for processing png image data and allocating memory buffers based on image parameters provided in the file headers. The integer overflow conditions occur when the library attempts to calculate memory requirements for image data processing, particularly when dealing with malformed or specially crafted png files that contain oversized dimension values.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the fundamental principle of integer arithmetic overflow within the memory allocation routines of the glpng library. When attackers provide png files with maliciously large width and height values in the image headers, the integer overflow causes the library to allocate insufficient memory buffers to accommodate the actual image data. This results in heap-based buffer overflows where subsequent data writes overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting program execution flow or allowing attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability is context-dependent meaning that successful exploitation requires the target application to be actively processing the malicious png file through the vulnerable glpng library functions. This makes the attack surface more constrained but no less dangerous, as it can be triggered through normal image loading operations in applications that utilize the affected library.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-1519 extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a significant threat to application stability and system security across numerous software platforms. Applications that rely on glpng for image processing, including graphic design tools, web browsers, image viewers, and content management systems, become vulnerable to remote code execution attacks when they process untrusted png files. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited through common attack vectors such as web browsing, email attachments, or file sharing scenarios where users might unknowingly open maliciously crafted png files. This creates a substantial risk for both individual users and enterprise environments where applications might be processing user-generated content or third-party image files without proper sanitization. The exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data theft, or unauthorized access to sensitive information, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where application security is paramount.
Security mitigations for CVE-2010-1519 should focus on immediate library updates and code validation measures to prevent exploitation. The most effective solution involves upgrading to a patched version of the glpng library where integer overflow checks have been implemented to prevent memory allocation calculations from exceeding safe limits. Organizations should also implement input validation mechanisms that sanitize png file headers before processing, ensuring that image dimensions fall within reasonable bounds before memory allocation occurs. Additionally, application developers should employ address space layout randomization, stack canaries, and other exploit mitigation techniques to reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers exploitation of software vulnerabilities for code execution. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify systems running vulnerable versions of the library, while security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious image processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The remediation process should also include comprehensive testing of patched applications to ensure that the security fixes do not introduce regressions in legitimate image processing functionality.