CVE-2017-15740 in IrfanView
Summary
by MITRE
IrfanView 4.50 - 64bit with CADImage plugin version 12.0.0.5 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service via a crafted .dwg file, related to "Data from Faulting Address controls Code Flow starting at CADIMAGE+0x000000000033228e."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-15740 affects IrfanView version 4.50 64-bit when used with the CADImage plugin version 12.0.0.5, representing a critical security flaw that enables remote code execution or denial of service attacks through maliciously crafted .dwg files. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the CADImage plugin's handling of AutoCAD drawing files, which are commonly used in engineering and architectural applications. The flaw manifests when the plugin processes malformed data structures within the .dwg file format, specifically at the memory address CADIMAGE+0x000000000033228e, where faulting address data directly influences code flow execution. The vulnerability operates under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 for exploitation of software vulnerabilities. This particular attack vector exploits the memory corruption that occurs when the plugin attempts to parse insufficiently validated data from the faulting address, allowing attackers to manipulate execution control flow and potentially inject malicious code.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a specially designed .dwg file that contains malformed data structures which, when processed by the CADImage plugin, trigger memory corruption. The plugin's failure to properly validate input data from the .dwg file format creates a condition where memory addresses can be manipulated to redirect program execution to attacker-controlled code. This represents a classic buffer overflow scenario where the plugin's memory management fails to account for potentially malicious input, leading to arbitrary code execution capabilities or system instability resulting in denial of service. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution as it can be leveraged for privilege escalation attacks, especially when IrfanView is run with elevated privileges. The flaw is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where users may unknowingly open malicious files, making it an attractive target for phishing campaigns or supply chain attacks. The specific address mentioned in the vulnerability description indicates that the attack surface is well-defined and potentially exploitable through precise memory manipulation techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe across multiple domains including enterprise security, industrial control systems, and engineering environments where .dwg files are commonly used. Organizations utilizing IrfanView with CADImage plugin for document processing, image viewing, or technical drawing review are at risk of unauthorized code execution, data exfiltration, or system compromise. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing platforms where .dwg files are prevalent. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability as part of their threat modeling for environments handling CAD files or engineering documentation, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, architecture, and construction where these file formats are extensively used. The vulnerability's potential for remote code execution makes it particularly dangerous in networked environments where users may access files from untrusted sources, and its exploitation can lead to complete system compromise. The attack complexity is relatively low, making it accessible to threat actors with moderate technical skills, which increases the likelihood of successful exploitation in real-world scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-15740 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected software versions, with the CADImage plugin updated to a version that properly validates .dwg file inputs and implements robust memory management practices. Organizations should implement network segmentation and file filtering controls to prevent automatic execution of .dwg files, particularly in high-risk environments. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious file access patterns and memory corruption indicators within IrfanView processes. The recommended remediation approach aligns with NIST guidelines for vulnerability management and includes disabling the CADImage plugin until proper patches are applied. Additional protective measures such as application whitelisting, user access controls, and regular security assessments should be implemented to reduce the attack surface. System administrators should also consider implementing sandboxing techniques for file processing applications and regularly updating security tools to detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification as a critical threat requires immediate attention from security teams and should be prioritized in incident response planning to ensure rapid detection and containment of potential exploitation attempts.