CVE-2012-1052 in IvanView
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in IvanView 1.2.15 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 • 02/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-1052 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the IvanView image processing software version 1.2.15. This vulnerability specifically targets the handling of JPEG2000 file format components, particularly the Quantization Default (QCD) marker segment that defines quantization parameters for image compression. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and bounds checking during the parsing of malformed JPEG2000 files, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain unauthorized code execution capabilities. The vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which encompasses buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checks allow attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when IvanView processes a specially crafted JP2 file containing a malformed QCD marker segment. The software fails to properly validate the length field within the QCD segment, allowing an attacker to specify a length that exceeds the allocated buffer space. When the application attempts to read and process this oversized segment, it writes data beyond the intended memory boundaries, potentially overwriting critical program structures including return addresses, function pointers, or other control data. This overflow condition creates an opportunity for attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code within the context of the vulnerable application's privileges, effectively compromising the system where IvanView is running.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a potential pathway for complete system compromise. Remote exploitation requires no authentication and can be achieved through the simple act of opening a maliciously crafted JPEG2000 file, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users may encounter untrusted image files. The vulnerability affects systems running IvanView 1.2.15 and potentially earlier versions, with the attack surface expanding to include any system where the application processes user-supplied image files. This makes the vulnerability particularly concerning in web environments, email systems, or any scenario where users might be exposed to potentially malicious image content without proper sandboxing or validation measures.
Security practitioners should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of IvanView where available, as well as implementing network-based controls to block or scan JPEG2000 file types if they are not required for legitimate business operations. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation could lead to command execution capabilities. Organizations should also consider deploying application whitelisting solutions and implementing strict file type validation controls to prevent automatic execution of potentially malicious image files. The remediation process should include comprehensive vulnerability scanning across all systems running affected versions of IvanView and establishing proper input validation controls to prevent similar buffer overflow conditions in other image processing applications.