CVE-2012-1175 in Gnash
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the GnashImage::size method in libbase/GnashImage.h in GNU Gnash 0.8.10 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via a crafted SWF file, which triggers a heap-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/12/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-1175 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the GNU Gnash multimedia player library, specifically in the GnashImage::size method located in libbase/GnashImage.h. This issue affects version 0.8.10 of the software and demonstrates a classic security weakness that can be exploited remotely through maliciously crafted SWF files. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and arithmetic handling within the image processing routines of the Flash player implementation, creating a dangerous condition where integer values exceed their maximum representable range and wrap around to negative values or zero.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a malicious SWF file contains specially crafted image data that triggers an integer overflow during the calculation of buffer sizes needed for image processing. When the GnashImage::size method processes these malformed inputs, the integer overflow causes the subsequent memory allocation to be insufficiently sized, leading to a heap-based buffer overflow condition. This memory corruption can result in unpredictable program behavior, including crashes that manifest as denial of service conditions or more severe outcomes where attackers might be able to execute arbitrary code within the context of the running application. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website hosting the compromised SWF content.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-1175 extends beyond simple service disruption to potentially enable remote code execution, making it a significant threat to systems running GNU Gnash. The vulnerability affects systems that process Flash content, particularly web browsers or applications that embed the Gnash player, creating a wide attack surface for malicious actors. This issue is classified under CWE-190 as an integer overflow or wraparound, which aligns with the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute commands on affected systems. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access or local privileges, making it particularly concerning for web-facing applications and services.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-1175 should focus on immediate patching of affected GNU Gnash installations to version 0.8.11 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the integer overflow condition. Organizations should also implement network-based protections including web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious SWF content, as well as disable Flash plugin execution in web browsers where possible. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and integer arithmetic handling in multimedia processing libraries, and organizations should conduct thorough code reviews to identify similar issues in other components. Additionally, implementing memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and data execution prevention can provide additional layers of defense against potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for regular security updates and the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions to prevent exploitation of known security flaws.