CVE-2017-10744 in XnView Classic
Summary
by MITRE
XnView Classic for Windows Version 2.40 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service via a crafted .rle file, related to a "Read Access Violation on Control Flow starting at COMCTL32!CToolTipsMgr::s_ToolTipsWndProc+0x0000000000000032."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/22/2019
CVE-2017-10744 represents a critical vulnerability in XnView Classic for Windows version 2.40 that enables remote code execution or denial of service through maliciously crafted .rle files. This vulnerability stems from a read access violation occurring within the control flow of COMCTL32!CToolTipsMgr::s_ToolTipsWndProc function, specifically at offset 0x32. The issue manifests when the application processes malformed RLE (Run-Length Encoded) image files without proper input validation, creating a dangerous execution path that attackers can exploit to manipulate memory access patterns. The vulnerability resides in the Windows common controls library where tooltip management occurs, making it particularly dangerous as it affects the graphical user interface components that applications rely on for user interaction.
The technical flaw involves a classic buffer over-read condition that occurs during the processing of RLE file headers and data structures. When XnView Classic encounters a specially crafted .rle file, the application's parsing logic fails to properly validate the file format, leading to memory access violations that can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code. The specific location at COMCTL32!CToolTipsMgr::s_ToolTipsWndProc indicates that the vulnerability is triggered during tooltip window message handling, suggesting that the malformed file causes the application to improperly process window messages or handle tooltip-related events. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities that can result in code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service to include full system compromise when exploited by attackers. An attacker can craft a malicious .rle file that, when opened by an unsuspecting user, triggers the vulnerable code path and allows for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected user. This creates a significant risk in environments where users may encounter untrusted image files through email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing platforms. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects a widely used image viewing application, increasing the potential attack surface and making successful exploitation more likely. The read access violation can be exploited through multiple attack vectors including social engineering campaigns that trick users into opening malicious files.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-10744 should focus on immediate patching of the affected XnView Classic version and implementation of additional security controls. Organizations should prioritize updating to the latest version of XnView Classic that addresses this vulnerability, as the vendor has released patches to correct the input validation issues. Network administrators should consider implementing file type restrictions and sandboxing mechanisms to prevent automatic execution of potentially malicious image files. The vulnerability can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through exploitation of software vulnerabilities, and T1203, which involves exploiting software vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access. Additionally, implementing strict input validation and sanitization measures for all image file formats processed by the application will help prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.