CVE-2017-2901 in 3d Creation Suite
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable integer overflow exists in the IRIS loading functionality of the Blender open-source 3d creation suite version 2.78c. A specially crafted '.iris' 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-2017-2901 represents a critical security flaw within the Blender 3D creation suite version 2.78c, specifically within its IRIS loading functionality. This issue manifests as an exploitable integer overflow that can escalate to a buffer overflow condition, potentially enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the running application. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages a common attack vector through file handling mechanisms that users frequently interact with during their creative workflows. The IRIS file format, used for storing 3D image data, becomes a potential attack surface when processed by the vulnerable software, creating a pathway for malicious actors to compromise systems through seemingly benign 3D asset files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the IRIS file parsing code where integer overflow conditions are not adequately handled. When processing specially crafted IRIS files, the application fails to properly validate integer values that determine buffer allocation sizes, leading to situations where allocated memory buffers become insufficient for the actual data being loaded. This integer overflow directly translates into a buffer overflow condition that can be exploited to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate program execution flow. The flaw operates at the intersection of software robustness and memory management, where insufficient bounds checking permits malicious data to exceed intended buffer boundaries. According to CWE standards, this vulnerability maps to CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow and underflow conditions that can lead to buffer overflows and other memory corruption issues.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2901 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass a complete compromise of the user's system when the vulnerable application processes malicious IRIS files. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through social engineering tactics, convincing users to incorporate compromised 3D assets into their projects via the sequencer functionality. The attack chain typically involves the user opening a specially crafted IRIS file, which triggers the vulnerable loading code path and subsequently executes the attacker's payload. This vulnerability particularly affects creative professionals who regularly work with 3D assets and may be less security-conscious when handling external files. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that Blender is widely used in professional environments where users frequently exchange assets, making the exploitation vector more accessible than initially apparent.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2901 should prioritize immediate software updates to versions that address the integer overflow condition in the IRIS file handling code. System administrators should implement restrictive file access controls and sandboxing measures for 3D applications to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Network-based mitigations could include filtering of IRIS files at network boundaries or implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict which applications can process 3D asset files. Users should be educated about the risks of opening untrusted 3D files and encouraged to verify the integrity of assets before incorporating them into their projects. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving initial access through malicious files and privilege escalation through code execution, making it a significant concern for organizations implementing comprehensive threat hunting strategies. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation and memory safety practices in software development, particularly for applications that process external file formats and data sources.