CVE-2017-17789 in GIMP
Summary
by MITRE
In GIMP 2.8.22, there is a heap-based buffer overflow in read_channel_data in plug-ins/common/file-psp.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-17789 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw within the GNU Image Manipulation Program version 2.8.22. This issue specifically manifests in the read_channel_data function located within the file-psp.c plug-in module. The vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation when processing proprietary PSP (Paint Shop Pro) image format files, creating a condition where maliciously crafted input can cause the application to write beyond the bounds of allocated heap memory. The flaw exists in the plugin architecture of GIMP, which is designed to handle various image formats through modular extensions, making it susceptible to exploitation when processing untrusted image data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking during the parsing of channel data within PSP files. When the read_channel_data function processes image channel information, it fails to validate the size of data being read from the input file against the allocated buffer space. This allows an attacker to construct a specially formatted PSP file that, when opened by GIMP, triggers a buffer overflow condition. The heap-based nature of the vulnerability means that the overflow occurs within dynamically allocated memory regions, potentially leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code or cause application crashes. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, and represents a classic example of insufficient boundary checking in memory management operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-17789 extends beyond simple application instability, as it creates potential for remote code execution when users open maliciously crafted PSP files. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through social engineering campaigns targeting GIMP users who might unknowingly open compromised image files. The vulnerability affects all systems running GIMP 2.8.22 and earlier versions, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently exchange image files or when GIMP is used in automated processing pipelines. The exploitability of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, Exploitation for Client Execution, as it targets the client application's file processing capabilities. Additionally, the vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices that are commonly exploited in software exploitation frameworks, making it a prime candidate for automated exploitation tools.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-17789 primarily involve immediate software updates to patched versions of GIMP, specifically versions 2.10.0 and later that contain the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Users should also implement defensive measures such as disabling or removing the problematic PSP plugin if it is not essential for their workflow, as this prevents the vulnerable code path from being executed. System administrators should consider implementing file validation policies that scan image files for potential malicious content before allowing them to be processed by image editing applications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input sanitization and bounds checking in plugin architectures, as recommended by security standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for secure coding practices. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting controls that restrict the execution of untrusted image processing applications, particularly in environments where users may encounter unverified image files from external sources.