CVE-2012-0268 in Yahoo!
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the CYImage::LoadJPG method in YImage.dll in Yahoo! Messenger before 11.5.0.155, when photo sharing is enabled, might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted JPG image that triggers a heap-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0268 represents a critical integer overflow condition within the CYImage::LoadJPG method of YImage.dll component in Yahoo! Messenger versions prior to 11.5.0.155. This flaw specifically manifests when the photo sharing feature is enabled, creating a pathway for remote attackers to exploit the software through maliciously crafted jpeg image files. The vulnerability falls under the category of heap-based buffer overflow conditions that can lead to arbitrary code execution, making it particularly dangerous in the context of instant messaging applications where users frequently receive and view media content from unknown sources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the image loading mechanism of Yahoo! Messenger's image processing library. When the CYImage::LoadJPG method processes a specially crafted jpeg file, the integer overflow occurs during the calculation of memory allocation required for buffer storage. This overflow results in insufficient memory being allocated for the destination buffer, causing subsequent memory operations to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw is categorized as CWE-190, Integer Overflow or Wraparound, which is a well-documented weakness in software security that occurs when an integer value exceeds its maximum representable value and wraps around to a smaller value, creating exploitable conditions. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK framework's technique T1203, Exploitation for Client Execution, as it enables remote code execution through client-side application exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation or denial of service scenarios. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Yahoo! Messenger process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector requires minimal user interaction beyond receiving and viewing the malicious image file, making it particularly effective in social engineering campaigns. The vulnerability's exploitation potential aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, Command and Scripting Interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute malicious commands through the compromised messenger application. The heap-based nature of the overflow provides attackers with additional flexibility in crafting payloads that can manipulate memory layout and control program execution flow.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch deployment as the primary defense mechanism, with Yahoo! Messenger users upgrading to version 11.5.0.155 or later. System administrators should also implement network-level controls to restrict image file transfers through instant messaging platforms, particularly when photo sharing features are enabled. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in multimedia processing libraries, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines. Additional defensive measures include implementing application whitelisting policies, monitoring for unusual memory allocation patterns, and conducting regular security assessments of third-party components integrated into messaging applications. Organizations should also consider network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation and implement intrusion detection systems capable of identifying suspicious file transfer activities within their networks.