CVE-2017-12100 in 3d Creation Suite
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable integer overflow exists in the 'multires_load_old_dm' functionality of the Blender open-source 3d creation suite v2.78c. A specially crafted .blend file can cause an integer overflow resulting in a buffer overflow which can allow for code execution under the context of the application. An attacker can convince a user to open a .blend file in order to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/07/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12100 represents a critical security flaw within the Blender 3D creation suite version 2.78c, specifically within the multires_load_old_dm functionality. This integer overflow vulnerability arises from improper input validation when processing specially crafted .blend files, which are the native file format used by Blender for 3D project storage. The flaw exists in the software's handling of multi-resolution mesh data structures, where the application fails to properly validate integer values during the loading process, creating a condition that can be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from an integer overflow condition that occurs when the application processes multi-resolution mesh data from legacy .blend files. When Blender attempts to load these files, the multires_load_old_dm function performs calculations that can exceed the maximum value representable by the integer data type being used. This overflow condition results in a subsequent buffer overflow, where the application attempts to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the file parsing functionality that is inherently trusted by users, requiring no additional privileges or complex attack vectors beyond convincing an unsuspecting user to open a malicious file.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple application instability, as it provides a pathway for remote code execution within the context of the Blender application. This means that an attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially execute arbitrary code on a victim's system with the same privileges as the Blender application itself. The attack surface is significant since .blend files are commonly shared among artists and designers, making them prime targets for social engineering attacks where a malicious file could be disguised as legitimate 3D content. The vulnerability affects any system running Blender 2.78c or earlier versions, creating widespread exposure across the 3D graphics community where Blender is extensively used for professional and educational purposes.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-12100 focus primarily on immediate software updates and user awareness measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to Blender version 2.79 or later, where the integer overflow has been properly addressed through enhanced input validation and bounds checking mechanisms. Security practitioners should implement strict file validation policies within organizations that use Blender, particularly in environments where users may encounter untrusted .blend files from external sources. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which catalogs integer overflow conditions, and represents a typical example of how buffer overflows can be leveraged for code execution under the ATT&CK framework's execution tactic. Organizations should also consider implementing sandboxing measures for file processing and maintaining up-to-date security patches for all creative software tools to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.