CVE-2016-7392 in AutoTrace
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the pstoedit_suffix_table_init function in output-pstoedit.c in AutoTrace 0.31.1 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds write) via a crafted bmp image file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-7392 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw within the AutoTrace software suite version 0.31.1. This issue specifically manifests in the pstoedit_suffix_table_init function located in the output-pstoedit.c source file, demonstrating a classic memory safety vulnerability that can be exploited to compromise system stability and availability. The flaw occurs when processing specially crafted bmp image files, making it particularly dangerous in environments where automated image processing is performed. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow category, which is classified as a fundamental memory corruption issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. AutoTrace is widely used for converting bitmap images into vector graphics, making it a common component in graphic design workflows and document processing pipelines.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper bounds checking within the pstoedit_suffix_table_init function, where the software fails to validate the size of data being read from maliciously crafted bmp files before attempting to write to heap-allocated memory regions. When a malicious bmp file is processed, the function attempts to populate a suffix table with data extracted from the image header, but does not properly validate that the extracted data fits within the allocated buffer space. This results in an out-of-bounds write operation that can overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting critical program data structures or causing the application to crash. The flaw is particularly concerning because it can be triggered remotely through web-based interfaces or automated processing systems that accept bmp file uploads without proper validation. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution) and T1499 (Endpoint Denial of Service) techniques, as it enables remote code execution capabilities and can be used to perform denial of service attacks against systems processing image files.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-7392 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as the buffer overflow can potentially be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks. Systems utilizing AutoTrace for automated image processing, document conversion services, or graphic design applications become vulnerable to exploitation by attackers who can craft malicious bmp files to trigger the vulnerability. This creates risk for web applications that accept image uploads, email servers processing image attachments, and automated document conversion systems that may be processing untrusted input from external sources. 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 AutoTrace is deployed as part of larger software ecosystems. Organizations relying on AutoTrace for image processing workflows face potential data integrity issues, system availability disruptions, and possible escalation to full system compromise if the vulnerability is successfully exploited. The flaw also impacts compliance with security standards such as iso/iec 27001 and nist cybersecurity framework, as it represents a known weakness in software that processes external data inputs without proper validation mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-7392 should focus on immediate patching of the AutoTrace software to version 0.31.2 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow vulnerability. Organizations should implement input validation controls that reject malformed bmp files before they reach the vulnerable code path, including size validation, header checking, and format verification mechanisms. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of AutoTrace instances to untrusted users or external networks. Additionally, organizations should consider deploying web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems that can identify and block attempts to exploit this vulnerability through crafted image file uploads. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be performed to identify other potential instances of similar buffer overflow issues in related software components. The remediation process should also include monitoring for any exploitation attempts and implementing proper logging and alerting mechanisms to detect when the vulnerability is being targeted. According to nist special publication 800-40, organizations should maintain updated vulnerability management processes that include prioritization of vulnerabilities based on risk assessment and implementation of appropriate compensating controls until permanent fixes are deployed.