CVE-2016-7447 in GraphicsMagick
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the EscapeParenthesis function in GraphicsMagick before 1.3.25 allows remote attackers to have unspecified impact via unknown vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2022
The heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in GraphicsMagick's EscapeParenthesis function represents a critical security flaw that existed in versions prior to 1.3.25. This vulnerability falls under the category of memory corruption issues that can potentially lead to arbitrary code execution or system compromise. The flaw specifically resides in how the software handles certain input patterns during the parenthesis escaping process within its graphics processing capabilities. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through remote means by crafting malicious input that triggers the vulnerable function, potentially leading to unpredictable system behavior and security breaches.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from inadequate bounds checking within the EscapeParenthesis function. When processing graphics-related data containing specific patterns, the function fails to properly validate the size of memory allocations, allowing attackers to write beyond the allocated heap buffer boundaries. This type of vulnerability is classified as a heap-based buffer overflow, which differs from stack-based variants in that it occurs within heap memory rather than the program stack. The CWE identifier for this class of vulnerability is CWE-121, which specifically addresses heap-based buffer overflow conditions that can lead to memory corruption and potential code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it can enable remote code execution under certain conditions. Attackers who successfully exploit this flaw can potentially execute arbitrary code on affected systems, leading to complete system compromise. The unspecified impact mentioned in the CVE description indicates that depending on the specific system configuration and exploitation method, the consequences could range from data corruption and service disruption to full system takeover. This vulnerability affects systems that process graphics files through GraphicsMagick, making it particularly dangerous in web applications, content management systems, and any environment where user-provided graphics data is processed.
The exploitation of this vulnerability typically involves sending specially crafted graphics files or data sequences that trigger the EscapeParenthesis function with malicious input patterns. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under the T1203 technique, which involves exploitation of software vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to systems. Organizations using GraphicsMagick in production environments should prioritize immediate patching to address this vulnerability. The remediation process requires updating to GraphicsMagick version 1.3.25 or later, where proper bounds checking has been implemented to prevent the buffer overflow condition. Additionally, implementing input validation and sanitization measures for all graphics processing pipelines can provide defense-in-depth protection against similar vulnerabilities. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual graphics processing patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, as well as regular vulnerability scanning to identify any remaining instances of older GraphicsMagick versions within the organization's infrastructure.