CVE-2017-15766 in IrfanView
Summary
by MITRE
IrfanView 4.50 - 64bit with BabaCAD4Image plugin version 1.3 allows attackers to cause a denial of service or possibly have unspecified other impact via a crafted .dwg file, related to "Data from Faulting Address controls Branch Selection starting at BabaCAD4Image!ShowPlugInOptions+0x000000000001f0a0."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/06/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-15766 affects IrfanView version 4.50 64-bit when utilizing the BabaCAD4Image plugin version 1.3, representing a critical denial of service weakness that can potentially lead to more severe consequences. This flaw manifests through the processing of maliciously crafted .dwg files, which are computer-aided design files commonly used in engineering and architectural applications. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of data originating from a faulting address that subsequently controls branch selection within the plugin's ShowPlugInOptions function, creating a predictable execution flow that adversaries can exploit to disrupt normal system operations.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it within the realm of control flow corruption and memory corruption issues, which are classified under CWE-122 for buffer overflow conditions and CWE-248 for unchecked exception handling. The specific faulting address mentioned in the vulnerability description indicates that the plugin fails to properly validate input data from the .dwg file, allowing attackers to manipulate memory pointers and redirect program execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1499.004 for Network Denial of Service, where adversaries leverage application-level flaws to exhaust system resources or cause program termination. The issue occurs at the plugin level rather than within IrfanView core functionality, making it particularly dangerous as it exploits the extensibility features that allow third-party components to enhance the application's capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as it represents a potential vector for more sophisticated attacks that could lead to arbitrary code execution or system compromise. When a user opens a malicious .dwg file through IrfanView with the vulnerable plugin installed, the application crashes or becomes unresponsive, effectively rendering the image viewer unusable for legitimate file processing. This behavior can be particularly problematic in enterprise environments where IrfanView might be used for document review or image processing tasks, as it could be exploited to disrupt business operations or serve as a stepping stone for further attacks. The vulnerability affects not just individual users but could potentially impact organizations that rely on automated image processing workflows or have centralized image viewing systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-15766 should focus on immediate plugin removal or disabling, as the most effective solution involves preventing the vulnerable component from executing altogether. Organizations should update to the latest versions of both IrfanView and the BabaCAD4Image plugin, ensuring that all security patches are applied. Network administrators should consider implementing file filtering mechanisms that prevent .dwg files from being processed through IrfanView unless they are from trusted sources, utilizing file type validation and content inspection techniques. Additionally, system hardening measures such as enabling address space layout randomization and data execution prevention can help mitigate potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of validating third-party plugin components and implementing least privilege principles when executing applications with extended functionality, as recommended by security frameworks such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO 27001 standards for information security management.