CVE-2015-4491 in Firefox
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the make_filter_table function in pixops/pixops.c in gdk-pixbuf before 2.31.5, as used in Mozilla Firefox before 40.0 and Firefox ESR 38.x before 38.2 on Linux, Google Chrome on Linux, and other products, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (heap-based buffer overflow and application crash) via crafted bitmap dimensions that are mishandled during scaling.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/22/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2015-4491 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the gdk-pixbuf library's image processing capabilities. This issue affects the make_filter_table function in pixops/pixops.c, which is responsible for handling bitmap scaling operations. The vulnerability manifests when the library processes crafted bitmap dimensions that exceed the bounds of integer arithmetic, creating conditions where mathematical operations produce unexpected results that can be exploited by malicious actors. The flaw specifically impacts systems that rely on gdk-pixbuf for image manipulation, including major web browsers such as Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome on Linux platforms, making it a widespread concern across multiple software ecosystems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of integer arithmetic during image scaling operations. When users provide bitmap dimensions that are excessively large, the make_filter_table function performs calculations that result in integer overflow conditions. This occurs because the code does not adequately validate input parameters or check for potential overflow scenarios during mathematical operations. The resulting integer overflow causes heap-based buffer overflows when the library attempts to allocate memory based on the corrupted calculated dimensions. These buffer overflows create opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially execute arbitrary code, while also enabling denial of service attacks through application crashes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond individual system compromises to affect entire software ecosystems that depend on gdk-pixbuf for image processing. Web browsers utilizing this library become vulnerable to remote code execution attacks when processing maliciously crafted image files, particularly bitmap images with manipulated dimensions. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is significant because it can be triggered through normal web browsing activities, requiring no special privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized code execution privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, or persistent backdoor installation. The denial of service aspect also represents a serious concern as it can be used to disrupt services or create persistent availability issues.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-4491 focus primarily on updating affected software components to versions that address the integer overflow conditions. System administrators should immediately upgrade to gdk-pixbuf version 2.31.5 or later, which includes proper input validation and overflow protection mechanisms. Browser vendors have released patches for affected versions of Firefox, Firefox ESR, and Chrome on Linux platforms, making it essential for users to apply these security updates promptly. Additional protective measures include implementing network-based security controls such as web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious image content, as well as deploying sandboxing techniques to limit the potential impact of successful exploits. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely deployment of security updates across all affected systems.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1059 for remote code execution through compromised applications. The flaw demonstrates how seemingly benign image processing operations can become attack vectors when proper input validation is absent, highlighting the importance of robust security practices in multimedia processing libraries. The widespread impact across multiple browser vendors and operating systems underscores the critical nature of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing comprehensive vulnerability management programs to protect against similar issues in the future.