CVE-2010-2641 in Evince
Summary
by MITRE
Array index error in the VF font parser in the dvi-backend component in Evince 2.32 and earlier allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (application crash) or possibly execute arbitrary code via a crafted font in conjunction with a DVI file that is processed by the thumbnailer.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/11/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2641 represents a critical array index error within the VF font parser component of Evince's dvi-backend functionality. This flaw exists in Evince versions 2.32 and earlier, where the software fails to properly validate array bounds when processing font data within DVI files. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization during the thumbnail generation process, which occurs when DVI documents are rendered for preview purposes. The flaw specifically manifests in the handling of font data structures, where an attacker can craft malicious font parameters that cause the application to access memory locations outside the allocated array boundaries. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-129, which categorizes improper validation of array indices, and represents a classic buffer over-read condition that can lead to unpredictable application behavior.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service to potentially enable remote code execution, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter untrusted DVI documents. When a victim's system processes a crafted DVI file through the thumbnailer component, the malformed font data triggers the array index error, causing the application to crash or potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running Evince. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the document processing level, where users might unknowingly encounter malicious content in seemingly legitimate documents. The attack vector requires the victim to have Evince installed and to process a malicious DVI file, often through automated thumbnail generation in file managers or document viewers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-2641 should focus on immediate version updates to Evince 2.32.1 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the array index validation issue. System administrators should also implement strict file validation policies, particularly for document processing applications, and consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1203, which deals with Exploitation for Client Execution, as it exploits application processing capabilities to execute malicious code. Organizations should also consider network-level protections such as content filtering and email scanning to prevent the delivery of malicious DVI files, while maintaining regular software update schedules to ensure all systems have the latest security patches. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of opening untrusted document files remains crucial in preventing successful exploitation of this type of vulnerability.