CVE-2014-9029 in Jasper
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple off-by-one errors in the (1) jpc_dec_cp_setfromcox and (2) jpc_dec_cp_setfromrgn functions in jpc/jpc_dec.c in JasPer 1.900.1 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted jp2 file, which triggers a heap-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9029 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow condition within the JasPer library version 1.900.1 and earlier, which serves as a fundamental component in image processing and manipulation across numerous software applications. This flaw manifests through two distinct functions within the jpc_dec.c file, specifically jpc_dec_cp_setfromcox and jpc_dec_cp_setfromrgn, where off-by-one errors create opportunities for malicious code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to craft specially designed jp2 image files that can trigger the buffer overflow when processed by vulnerable applications, effectively enabling arbitrary code execution on the target system.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and boundary checking within the JPEG 2000 decoding routines of JasPer. When the jpc_dec_cp_setfromcox and jpc_dec_cp_setfromrgn functions process data from jp2 files, they fail to properly validate array indices against buffer boundaries, creating conditions where a single byte of input can cause memory corruption. This off-by-one error pattern, classified under CWE-129 as "Improper Validation of Array Index," allows attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite critical program structures or execute malicious code. The heap-based nature of the overflow means that attackers can corrupt heap metadata and function pointers, leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-9029 extends far beyond simple code execution, as it affects any application or system that relies on JasPer for image processing, including web browsers, image viewers, document management systems, and multimedia applications. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by delivering malicious jp2 files through various attack vectors such as email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing platforms. The remote exploitation capability makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where users may unknowingly download or open compromised image files. The vulnerability's presence in widely used libraries means that the attack surface is extensive, potentially affecting thousands of applications and systems across different operating environments. Organizations running vulnerable versions of JasPer or applications that depend on it are at significant risk of unauthorized code execution, data theft, and system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of JasPer to version 1.900.2 or later, where the off-by-one errors have been corrected through proper array boundary validation and input sanitization. System administrators should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while monitoring for suspicious file downloads or image processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for 'Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell' and T1203 for 'Exploitation for Client Execution,' highlighting the need for comprehensive endpoint protection measures. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of vulnerable applications and deploy intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific buffer overflow condition. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and memory safety practices in security-critical software components, particularly those handling untrusted data from external sources.