CVE-2016-9573 in OpenJPEG
Summary
by MITRE
An out-of-bounds read vulnerability was found in OpenJPEG 2.1.2, in the j2k_to_image tool. Converting a specially crafted JPEG2000 file to another format could cause the application to crash or, potentially, disclose some data from the heap.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2023
The vulnerability CVE-2016-9573 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw in OpenJPEG 2.1.2's j2k_to_image utility, demonstrating a classic memory safety issue that has significant implications for image processing applications. This vulnerability specifically affects the conversion functionality of JPEG2000 files to other formats, making it particularly dangerous in environments where automated image processing occurs. The flaw manifests when the application processes maliciously crafted JPEG2000 files that contain malformed data structures, particularly within the codestream parsing logic that handles the transformation process from compressed to uncompressed image formats.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the j2k_to_image tool's handling of JPEG2000 file headers and data segments. When processing a specially crafted input file, the application fails to properly validate the size and structure of various components within the JPEG2000 codestream, leading to memory access violations that can result in either application crashes or information disclosure. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and represents a common class of issues in image processing libraries where complex file format parsers must handle numerous edge cases and malformed inputs. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the intersection of file format parsing and memory management, creating potential attack vectors that could be exploited to gain unauthorized access to sensitive heap data.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-9573 extends beyond simple application instability, as it creates opportunities for attackers to potentially extract sensitive information from the heap memory of the affected system. In environments where OpenJPEG is used for automated image processing, such as web applications, content management systems, or digital asset management platforms, this vulnerability could enable adversaries to perform information disclosure attacks that might reveal cryptographic keys, user data, or other confidential information stored in memory. The vulnerability's exploitation potential aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers command and script injection, as attackers could potentially leverage the heap disclosure to build more sophisticated attack chains. Organizations using OpenJPEG in production environments face significant risk, particularly in scenarios where the tool processes untrusted input from users or external sources, as even a single malicious file could compromise system security.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-9573 require immediate attention through software updates and implementation of defensive programming practices. The most effective solution involves upgrading to OpenJPEG versions that have patched this vulnerability, as the maintainers have addressed the bounds checking issues in subsequent releases. Additionally, organizations should implement input validation measures that restrict the types of JPEG2000 files processed by the application, particularly in environments where untrusted input is common. The vulnerability highlights the importance of defensive programming practices such as implementing proper bounds checking, using memory-safe programming languages where possible, and conducting thorough code reviews of file format parsers. Organizations should also consider implementing sandboxing techniques for image processing operations and monitoring for unusual memory access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments of image processing pipelines and dependency updates form essential components of a comprehensive security strategy to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.