CVE-2015-5203 in Jasper
Summary
by MITRE
Double free vulnerability in the jasper_image_stop_load function in JasPer 1.900.17 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) via a crafted JPEG 2000 image file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/14/2022
The CVE-2015-5203 vulnerability represents a critical double free error in the JasPer image processing library version 1.900.17 which specifically affects the jasper_image_stop_load function. This flaw occurs when the library processes malformed JPEG 2000 image files, creating a scenario where memory is freed twice during the image loading process. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-415 as a double free condition, which is a well-known memory corruption issue that can lead to unpredictable behavior including application crashes and potential code execution. The vulnerability exists in the image parsing logic where improper memory management occurs during error handling when processing malformed input data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service as it can be exploited remotely through crafted JPEG 2000 files delivered via web applications, email attachments, or file sharing systems that utilize JasPer for image processing. When a vulnerable application attempts to load a maliciously crafted JPEG 2000 file, the double free condition causes the application to crash or behave unpredictably, effectively creating a denial of service condition. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because JPEG 2000 is used in various security-sensitive applications including medical imaging systems, satellite imagery processing, and digital forensics tools where reliability is paramount. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 by enabling adversaries to disrupt services through resource exhaustion and application instability.
Systems utilizing JasPer 1.900.17 for image processing are at significant risk when handling untrusted input files, particularly in web applications, content management systems, or any platform that accepts image uploads without proper validation. The vulnerability affects not only the specific application using JasPer but also potentially impacts the entire system if the application crashes and restarts unexpectedly, leading to cascading failures. Organizations using vulnerable versions of JasPer should prioritize immediate patching or mitigation strategies, as this vulnerability can be easily exploited through automated scanning tools and does not require specialized knowledge to trigger. The memory corruption aspect of this vulnerability also raises concerns about potential exploitation for more advanced attack vectors, though the current analysis indicates primary risk remains as a denial of service mechanism.
The mitigation strategy involves upgrading to JasPer version 2.0.0 or later where this vulnerability has been resolved through proper memory management practices and additional input validation. Organizations should also implement input validation controls at the application level, including file type verification, size limits, and sandboxed processing environments for image files. Network-based mitigations such as content filtering and web application firewalls can help reduce exposure by blocking suspicious file types or implementing additional validation layers. Additionally, implementing proper error handling and memory management practices in applications that utilize JasPer can help reduce the impact if exploitation occurs, though complete protection requires the library upgrade. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management in image processing libraries and highlights the need for comprehensive testing of input validation mechanisms in security-sensitive applications.