CVE-2017-17784 in GIMP
Summary
by MITRE
In GIMP 2.8.22, there is a heap-based buffer over-read in load_image in plug-ins/common/file-gbr.c in the gbr import parser, related to mishandling of UTF-8 data.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2023
The vulnerability CVE-2017-17784 represents a critical heap-based buffer over-read flaw discovered in GIMP version 2.8.22 within the file-gbr.c plug-in module. This issue specifically affects the gbr import parser responsible for handling graphics buffer files, which are commonly used for storing brush data in image editing applications. The flaw manifests when the application processes malformed UTF-8 encoded data during the import of graphics buffer files, creating a scenario where the software attempts to read memory beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-125, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to information disclosure, application crashes, or potentially arbitrary code execution depending on the memory layout and exploitation techniques employed by adversaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the load_image function of the gbr import parser where UTF-8 data handling routines fail to properly validate the length of input strings before performing memory operations. When GIMP encounters a graphics buffer file containing malformed UTF-8 sequences, the parser does not adequately check buffer boundaries before reading data, allowing an attacker to craft malicious gbr files that trigger the over-read condition. The heap-based nature of this vulnerability indicates that the memory corruption occurs in the heap allocation region, making it particularly dangerous as it can lead to unpredictable behavior and potential exploitation through memory corruption attacks. This flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate bounds checking mechanisms that are fundamental requirements for secure software development.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-17784 extends beyond simple application instability, as it creates potential attack vectors for remote code execution and information disclosure. An attacker who can convince a user to open a maliciously crafted gbr file through GIMP's import functionality could potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system with the privileges of the user running GIMP. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where users may encounter untrusted graphics files through various channels including email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing platforms. The vulnerability affects both local and remote exploitation scenarios, as the buffer over-read can occur during normal file processing operations without requiring special privileges or complex attack chains, making it a significant threat to system security. According to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving execution through libraries and privilege escalation through software exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-17784 should prioritize immediate software updates to patched versions of GIMP where the buffer over-read has been corrected through proper bounds checking and input validation. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies that prevent automatic opening of untrusted graphics files and consider deploying sandboxing mechanisms to isolate GIMP execution environments. System administrators should also consider implementing network-based protections such as content filtering and email security solutions that can detect and block potentially malicious graphics files before they reach end-user systems. Additionally, regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any unpatched systems running vulnerable versions of GIMP, as the vulnerability affects legacy software versions that may still be in use within organizations. The fix implemented by the GIMP development team typically involves adding proper boundary checks and input validation to ensure that UTF-8 data processing operations do not exceed allocated buffer limits, thereby preventing the heap-based over-read condition from occurring.