CVE-2015-1858 in Qt
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in the QtBase module in Qt before 4.8.7 and 5.x before 5.4.2 allow remote attackers to cause a denial of service and possibly execute arbitrary code via a crafted BMP image.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1858 represents a critical security flaw within the QtBase module of the Qt framework, affecting versions prior to 4.8.7 and 5.x prior to 5.4.2. This issue stems from multiple buffer overflows that occur during the processing of crafted BMP image files, creating a significant attack surface for remote threat actors seeking to exploit the system. The Qt framework is widely used across various applications and operating systems, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it could potentially affect a vast number of systems that rely on Qt for their graphical user interface components.
The technical nature of this vulnerability involves buffer overflow conditions that manifest when the QtBase module processes malformed BMP image data. These buffer overflows occur due to insufficient bounds checking and input validation during image parsing operations, allowing attackers to craft specially designed BMP files that trigger memory corruption. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability maps to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow scenarios that can occur during dynamic memory allocation. The memory corruption patterns observed in this vulnerability align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the execution of commands through the use of scripting languages, as attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code on compromised systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-1858 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as the vulnerability presents a pathway for remote code execution in vulnerable systems. When exploited, this vulnerability could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to affected systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data exfiltration. The attack vector requires only a remote attacker to present a malicious BMP image to a vulnerable application, making the exploit relatively simple to implement. Organizations running applications built with Qt framework versions prior to the patched releases face significant risk, particularly those that process untrusted image files or allow user uploads. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the widespread adoption of Qt across desktop, mobile, and embedded systems, including various operating systems, web browsers, and multimedia applications that utilize Qt for their graphical interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of all affected Qt framework versions, with organizations prioritizing updates to Qt 4.8.7 or Qt 5.4.2 and subsequent releases. System administrators should implement comprehensive vulnerability management processes to identify all systems running vulnerable Qt versions and ensure timely patch deployment. Additional protective measures include implementing strict input validation for image file processing, deploying network segmentation to limit exposure, and utilizing application whitelisting to prevent execution of untrusted image processing components. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual image processing activities and potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for image processing operations and establishing incident response procedures specifically addressing buffer overflow vulnerabilities. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution threat necessitates robust network security controls including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation attempts.