CVE-2017-2862 in gdk-pixbuf
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable heap overflow vulnerability exists in the gdk_pixbuf__jpeg_image_load_increment functionality of Gdk-Pixbuf 2.36.6. A specially crafted jpeg file can cause a heap overflow resulting in remote code execution. An attacker can send a file or url to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2862 represents a critical heap overflow flaw within the gdk_pixbuf__jpeg_image_load_increment function of the Gdk-Pixbuf library version 2.36.6. This library serves as a fundamental component for image handling in numerous graphical applications and desktop environments, particularly within the gtk+ ecosystem. The flaw manifests when processing specially crafted jpeg image files, creating a condition where memory allocation boundaries are exceeded, potentially allowing adversaries to execute arbitrary code remotely. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the jpeg decoding routine, specifically during the incremental loading process that handles progressive jpeg images. This issue affects systems where Gdk-Pixbuf is utilized for image processing, including desktop applications, web browsers, and image manipulation tools that rely on the library for jpeg file handling. The heap overflow occurs due to improper bounds checking when parsing jpeg markers and data segments, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory regions with malicious payloads.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with common heap-based buffer overflow attack methodologies. The flaw operates at the intersection of CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, and CWE-787, out-of-bounds write, making it particularly dangerous in environments where applications process untrusted image data. When a malicious jpeg file is processed, the incremental loading mechanism fails to properly validate the size of data segments, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged to overwrite function pointers, return addresses, or other critical memory structures. The attack vector is particularly insidious as it requires no user interaction beyond the mere act of opening or processing the malicious file, making it suitable for automated exploitation in web-based scenarios or file sharing environments. The vulnerability's remote execution capability is enabled through the library's widespread use in applications that automatically process image files from external sources, such as web browsers, email clients, and document viewers.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2862 extends far beyond individual system compromise, affecting entire application ecosystems that depend on Gdk-Pixbuf for image handling. This vulnerability can be exploited in various contexts including web application attacks, email attachment processing, and file sharing platforms where users might unknowingly trigger the exploit by viewing or downloading malicious jpeg files. The potential for privilege escalation exists when exploited in applications running with elevated privileges, and the vulnerability's stealthy nature makes detection challenging since the overflow occurs during legitimate image processing operations. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under technique T1203, Exploitation for Client Execution, and T1059, Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables adversaries to execute arbitrary code through legitimate application interfaces. Organizations running affected software versions face significant risk of unauthorized access, data exfiltration, and system compromise, particularly in environments where users frequently interact with external image content. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal skill level, making it attractive to both sophisticated attackers and less experienced threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2862 focus primarily on immediate patching and application-level defenses. The most effective solution involves updating to Gdk-Pixbuf version 2.36.7 or later, which includes proper bounds checking and memory validation mechanisms that prevent the heap overflow condition. System administrators should prioritize patching across all affected applications that utilize the vulnerable library, including desktop environments, web browsers, and image processing tools. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict input validation for image files, particularly those received from untrusted sources, and deploying application sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of potential exploitation. Network-based defenses such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help prevent malicious jpeg files from reaching vulnerable applications. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning to identify systems running outdated versions of Gdk-Pixbuf and ensure proper configuration of image processing pipelines to reject malformed image data. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-691, Insufficient Control Flow Management, underscores the importance of proper error handling and memory management practices in preventing similar issues in other components of the application stack.