CVE-2016-9831 in libming
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the parseSWF_RGBA function in parser.c in the listswf tool in libming 0.4.7 allows remote attackers to have unspecified impact via a crafted SWF file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2020
The heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-9831 resides within the libming library version 0.4.7, specifically in the listswf tool's parseSWF_RGBA function located in parser.c. This flaw represents a critical security issue that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause system instability through the manipulation of specially crafted SWF files. The vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking during the parsing of SWF graphics files, which are commonly used in web applications and multimedia content delivery. The affected library is widely utilized for processing flash content, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it could be exploited across numerous applications that depend on libming for SWF file handling. The heap-based nature of the overflow indicates that the vulnerability occurs when the application attempts to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries in the heap segment, potentially leading to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the parseSWF_RGBA function failing to properly validate input parameters when processing color data within SWF files. When a malicious SWF file is processed by the listswf tool, the function attempts to read color values without adequate boundary checks, resulting in memory corruption that can be exploited by attackers. This flaw aligns with CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in heap memory regions. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the attack pattern described in the ATT&CK framework under T1203, Exploitation for Client Execution, as it enables remote code execution through manipulation of client-side applications that process SWF content. The impact of exploitation can range from denial of service conditions to complete system compromise, depending on the execution environment and available mitigations.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-9831 extends beyond simple exploitation scenarios, as it affects a wide range of applications and systems that utilize libming for SWF file processing. This includes web browsers, multimedia applications, content management systems, and any software that relies on the library for handling flash content. The remote attack vector means that adversaries can exploit this vulnerability through web-based delivery mechanisms without requiring local access to the target system. The unspecified impact mentioned in the CVE description reflects the potential for various outcomes including arbitrary code execution, information disclosure, or system crashes. Organizations using affected versions of libming should consider the vulnerability as a high-priority security concern, particularly in environments where untrusted SWF content is processed. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in complete compromise of affected systems, making it essential for security teams to implement immediate mitigation strategies.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-9831 should focus on immediate patching of affected libming versions, as the most effective solution involves upgrading to patched versions that contain proper bounds checking in the parseSWF_RGBA function. Organizations should also implement network-based restrictions to prevent processing of untrusted SWF files, particularly when using the listswf tool in production environments. Input validation and sanitization measures should be strengthened to prevent malformed SWF content from reaching the vulnerable parsing functions. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious SWF file processing activities, and network segmentation can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting controls and restricting execution privileges for the listswf tool can reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management practices and input validation in preventing heap-based buffer overflows, aligning with security best practices outlined in industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for secure coding practices.