CVE-2012-0978 in LuraWave JP2 Browser Plug-In
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in npjp2.dll in LuraWave JP2 Browser Plug-In 1.1.1.11 and other versions before 2.1.1.11 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a JPEG2000 (JP2) file with a crafted Quantization Default (QCD) marker segment.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0978 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the npjp2.dll component of the LuraWave JP2 Browser Plug-In version 1.1.1.11 and earlier releases. This flaw resides in the processing logic for JPEG2000 file format handling, specifically when parsing the Quantization Default (QCD) marker segment which is a fundamental element of the JP2 file structure. The issue manifests when a maliciously crafted JP2 file is loaded through a web browser that has the vulnerable plugin installed, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain arbitrary code execution privileges on the target system.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the QCD marker segment parsing routine. When the npjp2.dll plugin encounters a JP2 file containing a specially crafted QCD marker, it fails to validate the length field of the segment before copying data into a fixed-size stack buffer. This inadequate input validation allows an attacker to overflow the buffer and overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially including return addresses and control data. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow, which directly maps to the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution through browser-based attacks. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates within the browser plugin context, meaning successful exploitation can occur without user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a potential pathway for privilege escalation and persistent access to affected systems. Since the vulnerability exists in a browser plugin, it can be exploited through drive-by download scenarios where users visit compromised websites hosting malicious JP2 files. The attack vector is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where multiple users may access the same browser plugins, potentially allowing attackers to compromise entire networks through a single successful exploit. The vulnerability affects not just individual users but also organizations that rely on web-based content delivery, as the attack can be concealed within legitimate-looking web pages that simply contain embedded JP2 images. Furthermore, the exploitability is enhanced by the fact that JPEG2000 files are supported by multiple browsers and applications, increasing the potential attack surface significantly.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-0978 should prioritize immediate patching of the LuraWave JP2 Browser Plug-In to version 2.1.1.11 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. System administrators should also implement browser security configurations that disable or restrict the execution of potentially malicious plugins, particularly those that handle image formats. Network-based mitigations include content filtering solutions that can identify and block suspicious JP2 files based on their structure and markers. The implementation of address space layout randomization and data execution prevention measures can provide additional protection layers, though these are not sufficient on their own to prevent exploitation. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running the vulnerable plugin and ensure proper patch management protocols are in place. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual plugin behavior and file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, with particular attention to processes that handle image file processing in browser environments. The remediation process must also consider the broader ecosystem of applications that may rely on the affected plugin, ensuring that updates do not introduce compatibility issues while maintaining security posture.