CVE-2017-14636 in sam2p
Summary
by MITRE
Because of an integer overflow in sam2p 0.49.3, a loop executes 0xffffffff times, ending with an invalid read of size 1 in the Image::Indexed::sortPal function in image.cpp. However, this also causes memory corruption because of an attempted write to the invalid d[0xfffffffe] array element.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/30/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14636 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the sam2p 0.49.3 software library, specifically manifesting in the Image::Indexed::sortPal function located in image.cpp. This issue stems from improper handling of integer values during loop iteration processes, creating a condition where a loop executes an extraordinarily large number of iterations. The integer overflow occurs when the loop counter exceeds the maximum value that can be represented by the integer type, causing the counter to wrap around to zero and subsequently execute 0xffffffff times, which translates to over four billion iterations. This fundamental flaw in the software architecture creates a cascading effect that extends beyond simple execution loops into memory management and data corruption domains.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a specific code path where the integer overflow directly impacts array indexing operations within the memory management subsystem. When the loop executes the excessive number of iterations, it attempts to access memory locations that are far beyond the allocated array boundaries, specifically targeting the invalid d[0xfffffffe] array element. This array access pattern violates fundamental memory safety principles and results in both read and write operations occurring at memory locations that are not properly allocated or accessible. The vulnerability manifests as an invalid read of size 1, indicating that the system attempts to read a single byte from an inaccessible memory location, while simultaneously causing memory corruption through an attempted write operation to the same invalid memory address.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14636 extends beyond simple application crashes or hangs, as the memory corruption aspect creates potential for more severe security consequences. This vulnerability can be exploited to cause denial of service conditions, potentially leading to application instability and system resource exhaustion. The integer overflow creates a predictable pattern of memory access violations that could be leveraged by attackers to manipulate program execution flow or corrupt memory structures. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of how improper input validation and boundary checking can lead to memory corruption vulnerabilities. The flaw's presence in a graphics processing library like sam2p makes it particularly concerning as it could be triggered through processing of malicious image files, creating potential for remote code execution scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-14636 must address both the immediate integer overflow condition and the resulting memory corruption issues. The most effective approach involves implementing proper integer overflow detection and handling mechanisms within the affected codebase, particularly around loop counters and array indexing operations. Developers should employ bounds checking mechanisms to prevent array access beyond allocated memory boundaries and implement input validation to ensure that loop parameters remain within expected ranges. Security-conscious organizations should prioritize updating to patched versions of sam2p 0.49.3 or implementing runtime protections such as address space layout randomization and stack canaries to limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of static analysis tools and formal verification techniques in identifying integer overflow conditions before they can be exploited, as these issues often remain undetected during traditional code review processes. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability could be categorized under initial access and execution tactics, potentially enabling adversaries to establish persistent access through exploitation of memory corruption vulnerabilities in commonly used libraries.