CVE-2013-7296 in Poppler
Summary
by MITRE
The JBIG2Stream::readSegments method in JBIG2Stream.cc in Poppler before 0.24.5 does not use the correct specifier within a format string, which allows context-dependent attackers to cause a denial of service (segmentation fault and application crash) via a crafted PDF file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/31/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-7296 resides within the Poppler PDF rendering library, specifically in the JBIG2Stream::readSegments method located in JBIG2Stream.cc. This flaw represents a classic case of improper format string handling that can be exploited to trigger arbitrary code execution or system instability. The vulnerability affects Poppler versions prior to 0.24.5, making it a significant concern for systems that rely on this library for PDF processing and rendering operations. The issue stems from the library's failure to properly validate or sanitize format specifiers during string processing operations, creating a pathway for malicious input to disrupt normal program execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a format string manipulation error within the JBIG2 stream processing logic. When Poppler encounters a PDF file containing JBIG2 compressed data, the readSegments method attempts to parse and process segment information using format strings that are not properly validated. This improper handling allows attackers to craft specially designed PDF files that contain malformed JBIG2 segments with malicious format specifiers. The vulnerability specifically targets the interaction between the format string processing and the actual data parsing, where the application fails to properly validate the format string parameters before using them in subsequent operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, though that represents the primary exploitation vector. Context-dependent attackers can leverage this flaw to cause segmentation faults and application crashes, effectively rendering PDF processing applications unusable. This type of attack can be particularly damaging in environments where PDF processing is critical to business operations, such as document management systems, web applications, or enterprise content management platforms. The vulnerability can be exploited remotely through web browsers or PDF viewers that utilize Poppler for rendering, making it a significant threat in widespread deployment scenarios.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability maps to CWE-134, which describes the weakness of using untrusted data in format string operations. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and sanitization practices that are commonly exploited in buffer overflow and format string attacks. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a Denial of Service attack technique, specifically leveraging application-level vulnerabilities that can be triggered through crafted input. Organizations using affected versions of Poppler should consider this vulnerability as part of their broader security posture assessment, particularly in environments where PDF files are processed from untrusted sources. The remediation approach requires immediate patching to version 0.24.5 or later, along with implementation of additional input validation measures to prevent similar issues in other components of the PDF processing pipeline.
The broader implications of this vulnerability highlight the importance of robust input validation and format string security practices in open source libraries. Many applications depend on Poppler for PDF functionality, making this vulnerability potentially widespread in scope. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems using affected versions, while also implementing monitoring solutions to detect 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 components in enterprise environments.