CVE-2017-17786 in GIMP
Summary
by MITRE
In GIMP 2.8.22, there is a heap-based buffer over-read in ReadImage in plug-ins/common/file-tga.c (related to bgr2rgb.part.1) via an unexpected bits-per-pixel value for an RGBA image.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2023
The vulnerability CVE-2017-17786 represents a heap-based buffer over-read condition that exists within the Graphics Interchange Management Program version 2.8.22. This flaw specifically manifests in the plug-ins/common/file-tga.c component when processing Targa image files through the ReadImage function. The issue occurs during the bgr2rgb.part.1 processing phase where the software fails to properly validate the bits-per-pixel value associated with RGBA images, creating a scenario where memory access extends beyond the allocated buffer boundaries.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the TGA file parser implementation. When GIMP encounters a Targa image file with an unexpected bits-per-pixel configuration for RGBA images, the software does not properly sanitize this value before proceeding with the color conversion process. This allows an attacker to craft malicious TGA files that trigger the buffer over-read condition, potentially causing the application to read memory locations that it should not access. The heap-based nature of the vulnerability means that the over-read occurs in dynamically allocated memory regions, which can lead to information disclosure or application instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple application crashes, as it can potentially be exploited to extract sensitive information from memory or cause denial of service conditions. When the buffer over-read occurs, adjacent memory segments may contain confidential data such as cryptographic keys, user credentials, or other sensitive information that could be inadvertently exposed. The vulnerability affects the core image processing functionality of GIMP, making it particularly concerning for users who process untrusted image files from external sources. Attackers could leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized access to system memory contents or disrupt normal application operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-17786 should focus on both immediate patching and defensive measures. The primary solution involves updating to a patched version of GIMP that properly validates the bits-per-pixel values during TGA file processing. Organizations should implement strict file validation procedures for image files, particularly those received from untrusted sources, and consider implementing sandboxing techniques to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. Additionally, regular security assessments should include testing for similar buffer over-read conditions in image processing libraries and applications. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and may be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1059 for execution through malicious file processing, highlighting the importance of proper input validation in preventing such security incidents.
The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of robust input validation in multimedia processing applications, where malformed file formats can lead to serious security implications. Given that GIMP is widely used for image editing and manipulation across various platforms, the potential attack surface for this vulnerability is extensive, making timely remediation essential for maintaining system security.