CVE-2015-8367 in Libraw
Summary
by MITRE
The phase_one_correct function in Libraw before 0.17.1 allows attackers to cause memory errors and possibly execute arbitrary code, related to memory object initialization.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-8367 resides within the Libraw library version 0.17.1 and earlier, representing a critical memory safety issue that affects the phase_one_correct function. This flaw manifests as an improper memory object initialization that can be exploited by attackers to trigger memory errors and potentially achieve arbitrary code execution. The Libraw library serves as a crucial component for processing digital camera raw image files across numerous applications and operating systems, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for the broader digital imaging ecosystem. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation and initialization of memory objects during the image processing workflow, specifically within the phase_one_correct function that handles raw image data correction.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-457, which addresses the use of uninitialized memory, and represents a classic example of memory corruption that can lead to unpredictable behavior. Attackers can leverage this weakness by crafting malicious raw image files that, when processed by vulnerable Libraw versions, cause the phase_one_correct function to access improperly initialized memory regions. This memory corruption can manifest through buffer overflows, use-after-free conditions, or other memory safety violations that disrupt normal program execution. The exploitation pathway typically involves manipulating the input raw image data to trigger the flawed memory initialization sequence, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite critical memory locations or inject malicious code into the executing process.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-8367 extends across multiple domains where Libraw is integrated, including digital photography applications, image processing software, and various operating systems that utilize raw image handling capabilities. Systems running vulnerable versions of Libraw are susceptible to denial of service conditions, where applications crash or become unresponsive, or more severe scenarios where attackers can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. This vulnerability particularly affects applications that process untrusted raw image files from external sources, making web applications, image sharing platforms, and digital asset management systems prime targets. The potential for remote code execution through this memory corruption flaw makes it a significant concern for security professionals managing digital imaging workflows and image processing pipelines.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-8367 primarily focus on upgrading to Libraw version 0.17.1 or later, where the memory initialization issues have been addressed through proper validation and memory management practices. System administrators should prioritize patching affected applications that utilize vulnerable Libraw versions, particularly those handling external or untrusted image inputs. Additional defensive measures include implementing input validation controls, sanitizing raw image file inputs, and deploying runtime protections such as address space layout randomization and stack canaries. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable applications to untrusted inputs. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management in image processing libraries and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of third-party libraries used in image handling workflows. This case study exemplifies how memory safety issues in foundational libraries can create widespread security implications across multiple application domains and operating environments, reinforcing the necessity of maintaining up-to-date security patches and conducting regular vulnerability assessments of software dependencies.