CVE-2015-1362 in Exif Pilot
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the Customize 35mm tab in Two Pilots Exif Pilot 4.7.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string in the maker element in an XML file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1362 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Two Pilots Exif Pilot 4.7.2 software application. This issue specifically affects the Customize 35mm tab functionality and stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms when processing XML files containing maker element data. The flaw resides in the software's handling of user-supplied data during the parsing of Exif metadata, creating a condition where maliciously crafted input can exceed the allocated buffer space and overwrite adjacent memory regions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic stack-based buffer overflow scenario as classified under CWE-121. When the application processes an XML file containing an excessively long string within the maker element, the software fails to properly bounds-check the input before copying it into a fixed-size buffer. This allows attackers to overwrite return addresses, function pointers, and other critical memory structures with malicious code payloads. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables remote code execution without requiring local system access, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to compromise systems through maliciously crafted image files.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-1362 extends beyond simple arbitrary code execution to encompass full system compromise capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to affected systems, potentially leading to data theft, system infiltration, or deployment of additional malware. The remote exploitation capability means that users can be compromised simply by opening or processing maliciously crafted XML files, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently handle Exif metadata from untrusted sources. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 by enabling adversaries to execute code remotely through application vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate software updates from Two Pilots to address the buffer overflow condition in the XML parsing functionality. Organizations should implement strict input validation measures and consider deploying network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of processing untrusted Exif metadata and the importance of keeping software applications updated. The vulnerability highlights the necessity of applying the principle of least privilege when handling Exif metadata processing and implementing proper memory management practices including stack canaries and address space layout randomization to reduce exploitability. Security professionals should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of vulnerable software components and regularly audit systems for outdated applications that may be susceptible to similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities.