CVE-2017-2899 in 3d Creation Suite
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable integer overflow exists in the TIFF loading functionality of the Blender open-source 3d creation suite version 2.78c. A specially crafted '.tif' file can cause an integer overflow resulting in a buffer overflow which can allow for code execution under the context of the application. An attacker can convince a user to use the file as an asset via the sequencer in order to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/07/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2899 represents a critical security flaw within the Blender 3d creation suite version 2.78c, specifically within its TIFF image loading functionality. This integer overflow vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation when processing specially crafted .tif files, creating a pathway for remote code execution under the privileges of the running application. The flaw exists in the image parsing routines that handle TIFF format files, which are commonly used in professional 3d workflows and asset management within the software ecosystem. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is heightened by the fact that Blender's sequencer component allows users to incorporate external assets, making it a realistic attack vector where unsuspecting users might inadvertently trigger the malicious code execution.
Technical analysis reveals that the vulnerability manifests as an integer overflow during the TIFF file processing phase, where the application fails to properly validate or constrain integer values when calculating buffer sizes or memory allocations. This overflow condition leads directly to a subsequent buffer overflow, a well-documented weakness that has been classified under CWE-190 as "Integer Overflow or Wraparound" and subsequently mapped to CWE-121 as "Stack-based Buffer Overflow". The flaw occurs when the application processes image dimensions or metadata within the TIFF header, where maliciously crafted values cause arithmetic operations to exceed the maximum representable integer value, resulting in unexpected memory behavior. The buffer overflow that follows allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially including return addresses or function pointers, thereby enabling arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of the Blender application and its users. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code with the same privileges as the Blender process, which typically runs with the user's current permissions and access rights. This creates a significant risk for users who work with untrusted 3d assets or collaborate in environments where external file imports are common. The attack scenario is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond opening or importing the malicious file, making it a prime candidate for social engineering campaigns targeting creative professionals who regularly work with various media formats. The vulnerability affects the software's core functionality, as it impacts the basic file loading and asset management capabilities that form the foundation of Blender's workflow.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2899 should focus on immediate patching and process hardening measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to a patched version of Blender where the integer overflow has been addressed through proper input validation and boundary checking mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies, particularly for image assets, and consider using automated scanning tools to detect potentially malicious TIFF files before they are processed by the application. Security controls should include input sanitization, memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries, and address space layout randomization to make exploitation more difficult. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of adhering to secure coding practices and following the principles outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices, particularly those addressing integer overflow conditions and buffer management. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of opening untrusted files and the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions to protect against known vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1203 for "Exploitation for Client Execution," emphasizing the need for both defensive and detection measures to protect against such attacks.