CVE-2016-0740 in LibTIFF
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the ImagingLibTiffDecode function in libImaging/TiffDecode.c in Pillow before 3.1.1 allows remote attackers to overwrite memory via a crafted TIFF file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/24/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-0740 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Pillow library's image processing capabilities. This issue affects versions of Pillow prior to 3.1.1 and specifically targets the ImagingLibTiffDecode function located in the libImaging/TiffDecode.c source file. The flaw arises during the processing of TIFF image files, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter untrusted image content. The vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code through carefully crafted TIFF files that trigger memory corruption during decoding operations.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from insufficient bounds checking within the TIFF decoding routine. When Pillow processes a malformed TIFF file, the ImagingLibTiffDecode function fails to properly validate the size of data structures before copying data into fixed-size buffers. This deficiency creates an opportunity for attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially leading to stack corruption, heap corruption, or even complete control over the application's execution flow. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checks allow data to be written beyond allocated memory regions. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with stack-based buffer overflows that can be exploited through crafted input data manipulation.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-0740 extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a significant threat to web applications and services that utilize Pillow for image processing. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform remote code execution on systems running vulnerable versions of Pillow, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires only the presentation of a malicious TIFF file, making it suitable for web-based exploitation scenarios where users might inadvertently encounter crafted images. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves the exploitation of software vulnerabilities to gain remote access, and T1059, which encompasses command and scripting interpreter usage for malicious purposes.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-0740 primarily focus on immediate version upgrades to Pillow 3.1.1 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all systems utilizing Pillow are updated promptly. Additionally, input validation measures should be strengthened at the application level to reject suspicious image files before processing, though this approach remains secondary to the core patching solution. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual image processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly in web applications where user uploads are accepted. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of regular security audits and dependency management in software development environments, emphasizing the need for continuous vulnerability assessment and remediation processes to prevent similar issues from arising in future releases.