CVE-2017-1000128 in Exiv2
Summary
by MITRE
Exiv2 0.26 contains a stack out of bounds read in JPEG2000 parser
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1000128 represents a critical stack out of bounds read flaw within the Exiv2 library version 0.26, specifically affecting the JPEG2000 parser component. This issue arises from insufficient bounds checking during the processing of JPEG2000 image files, creating a potential pathway for attackers to exploit memory access violations that could lead to arbitrary code execution or system compromise. The flaw exists within the library's handling of malformed or specially crafted JPEG2000 data structures, making it particularly dangerous in environments where Exiv2 is used for image metadata processing.
Technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the JPEG2000 parser encounters malformed data structures within image files, causing the application to read memory beyond the allocated stack buffer boundaries. The out of bounds read vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and boundary checking mechanisms within the parser's code path, allowing attackers to manipulate the parsing process through carefully crafted JPEG2000 files. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient bounds checking, and can be classified as a memory safety issue that enables potential denial of service or code execution attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-1000128 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it can be leveraged in various attack scenarios including remote code execution when Exiv2 is used in web applications, image processing services, or content management systems. Applications that utilize Exiv2 for automatic metadata extraction from user-uploaded images become particularly vulnerable, as attackers can craft malicious JPEG2000 files to trigger the out of bounds read condition. The vulnerability affects systems running Exiv2 version 0.26 and potentially earlier versions, making it a widespread concern across various software ecosystems that depend on this metadata handling library.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of Exiv2 to version 0.27 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the stack out of bounds read issue. Organizations should implement input validation measures to sanitize image file uploads and consider deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malformed JPEG2000 files. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the technique of 'Exploitation for Code Execution' with potential use of 'Memory Injection' tactics, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security controls. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for suspicious file upload activities and implement proper access controls to limit the impact of potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date libraries and implementing robust input validation practices in security-sensitive applications.