CVE-2016-1924 in OpenJPEG
Summary
by MITRE
The opj_tgt_reset function in OpenJpeg 2016.1.18 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds read and application crash) via a crafted JPEG 2000 image.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1924 resides within the OpenJpeg library version 2016.1.18, specifically within the opj_tgt_reset function that handles target reset operations during JPEG 2000 image processing. This flaw represents a classic out-of-bounds read condition that occurs when the library attempts to process malformed or crafted JPEG 2000 image files. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and boundary checking within the target reset functionality, allowing attackers to construct malicious image files that trigger memory access violations when the library tries to reset internal target structures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the opj_tgt_reset function failing to properly validate array indices or buffer boundaries when processing JPEG 2000 metadata structures. When a crafted image file is processed, the function attempts to read memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, resulting in unpredictable behavior including application crashes and potential system instability. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-125, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions, and represents a significant concern for any system that processes untrusted image content. The flaw can be exploited remotely through any application or service that utilizes the OpenJpeg library for JPEG 2000 image handling, making it particularly dangerous in web applications, document processing systems, or any environment where users can upload image files.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-1924 extends beyond simple denial of service, as it can be leveraged to create more sophisticated attack vectors within the context of the ATT&CK framework's execution and persistence categories. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to crash applications that depend on OpenJpeg, potentially leading to service disruption across multiple systems. In environments where automated image processing occurs, such as content management systems, document repositories, or digital asset management platforms, this vulnerability can result in cascading failures that impact business operations. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require local access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where image files may be processed automatically without proper sanitization.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-1924 should prioritize immediate patching of the OpenJpeg library to version 2016.1.19 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the out-of-bounds read condition. Organizations should implement input validation measures that sanitize all JPEG 2000 image files before processing, including implementing strict file format validation and size limitations. Network-based protections such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious image uploads, while application-level defenses should include proper error handling and memory protection mechanisms. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for unusual application behavior or crashes that may indicate exploitation attempts, and maintain up-to-date threat intelligence regarding similar vulnerabilities in image processing libraries. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management and input validation in security-critical libraries, emphasizing that even well-established open source components require regular security auditing and patch management procedures.