CVE-2017-12605 in OpenCV
Summary
by MITRE
OpenCV (Open Source Computer Vision Library) through 3.3 has an out-of-bounds write error in the FillColorRow8 function in utils.cpp when reading an image file by using cv::imread.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2022
The vulnerability CVE-2017-12605 represents a critical out-of-bounds write condition within the OpenCV computer vision library that affects versions through 3.3. This flaw exists in the FillColorRow8 function located within the utils.cpp source file, which is invoked during image file processing operations through the cv::imread function. The vulnerability manifests when the library attempts to parse and read image files, specifically exposing a memory corruption issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution or system instability. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with a buffer overflow vulnerability, where the application writes data beyond the allocated memory boundaries, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate memory contents and execute malicious code.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking within the image parsing logic. When cv::imread processes certain malformed or specially crafted image files, the FillColorRow8 function fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits before writing data. This inadequate input validation creates an opportunity for attackers to construct malicious image files that trigger the out-of-bounds write condition. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the core image processing functionality of OpenCV, which is widely used across various applications including security systems, medical imaging, and autonomous vehicle software. The flaw can be exploited through the standard image loading interface without requiring special privileges or complex attack vectors.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-12605 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as the out-of-bounds write condition can potentially lead to remote code execution. Systems that utilize OpenCV for image processing, particularly those exposed to untrusted image inputs such as web applications, file upload systems, or networked security cameras, become vulnerable to exploitation. The vulnerability affects a wide range of applications that depend on OpenCV's image handling capabilities, including but not limited to surveillance systems, medical imaging software, and computer vision platforms. Attackers can leverage this flaw by providing malicious image files that, when processed by cv::imread, trigger the memory corruption and potentially allow for privilege escalation or system compromise. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by OpenCV's widespread adoption in both commercial and open source projects.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-12605 primarily focus on updating to patched versions of OpenCV where the bounds checking has been properly implemented. Users should immediately upgrade to OpenCV version 3.3.1 or later, which contains the necessary fixes to prevent the out-of-bounds write condition. Organizations should implement input validation measures at the application level, including sanitizing image file inputs and implementing proper error handling for image processing operations. Additionally, deployment of network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-787, which describes out-of-bounds write conditions, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1059 for remote code execution through application vulnerabilities. System administrators should also consider implementing runtime monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability.