CVE-2010-4262 in Xfig
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Xfig 3.2.4 and 3.2.5 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via a FIG image with a crafted color definition.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-4262 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw present in Xfig versions 3.2.4 and 3.2.5, a widely used vector graphics editor for unix systems. This vulnerability specifically manifests when the application processes FIG image files containing maliciously crafted color definitions that exceed the allocated buffer space on the stack. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the color parsing routine, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations and potentially manipulate program execution flow. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite stack data. Such vulnerabilities fall under the ATT&CK technique T1190, which encompasses exploitation of vulnerabilities in software applications through crafted inputs that trigger memory corruption.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when Xfig attempts to parse a FIG file containing an oversized color definition field that exceeds the predetermined buffer size allocated for color data processing. When the application encounters this malformed input, the excessive data overflows into adjacent stack memory locations, potentially corrupting the return address of the calling function or other critical program variables. This memory corruption can result in immediate program termination through segmentation faults or access violations, leading to denial of service conditions. However, the vulnerability's potential extends beyond simple crash conditions, as the controlled overwrite of memory locations may enable attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user. The exploitation requires the target system to open or process the malicious FIG file, making social engineering or phishing techniques viable attack vectors for initial compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-4262 extends significantly beyond immediate denial of service scenarios, as the vulnerability presents a substantial risk to system security and availability. Organizations relying on Xfig for graphic design, technical documentation, or educational purposes face potential compromise when processing untrusted FIG files, particularly in collaborative environments or shared workspaces where file exchange occurs. The vulnerability affects systems running vulnerable versions of Xfig across multiple unix-based platforms, including various linux distributions and unix variants that include the affected software package. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could potentially escalate privileges or establish persistent access through code execution, especially in environments where users have elevated permissions or where the application runs with elevated privileges. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur without physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments or web-based collaborative platforms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-4262 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Xfig installations to the latest secure versions that address the buffer overflow vulnerability. System administrators should implement strict file validation policies for FIG files, particularly those received from external sources or untrusted users, and consider deploying automated scanning tools to detect potentially malicious color definitions before processing. Network segmentation and privilege separation can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by reducing the privileges available to compromised applications. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of Xfig to trusted environments and users can significantly reduce the attack surface. Regular security updates and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to ensure that all system components remain protected against similar memory corruption vulnerabilities, with particular attention to legacy applications that may not receive ongoing security support. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and bounds checking in preventing buffer overflow exploits that can lead to arbitrary code execution.