CVE-2017-2904 in 3d Creation Suite
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable integer overflow exists in the RADIANCE loading functionality of the Blender open-source 3d creation suite version 2.78c. A specially crafted '.hdr' 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-2017-2904 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the RADIANCE lighting file format loading capabilities of Blender version 2.78c, a widely used open-source 3d creation suite. This vulnerability resides in the application's handling of .hdr image files, which are commonly employed for high dynamic range lighting environments in 3d rendering workflows. The flaw manifests when Blender processes specially crafted hdr files through its sequencer component, creating a dangerous execution path that can be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and arithmetic handling within the RADIANCE file parsing code. When Blender attempts to load a malicious hdr file, the application performs calculations that result in integer overflow conditions. This overflow subsequently propagates into a buffer overflow scenario, where memory allocation calculations become corrupted and lead to memory corruption. The vulnerability specifically affects the application's memory management routines that handle image data processing, creating a condition where attacker-controlled input can manipulate memory boundaries and overwrite critical application structures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution privileges, as it allows attackers to potentially gain complete control over the Blender application process. Since the vulnerability can be triggered through the sequencer component, which is commonly used in professional 3d workflows, an attacker can craft malicious hdr files that appear legitimate to unsuspecting users. The attack vector becomes particularly dangerous in collaborative environments where team members might unknowingly open malicious files shared through project assets or external sources. This scenario aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries leverage application vulnerabilities to execute code on target systems.
The exploitability of this vulnerability is significantly enhanced by the widespread use of Blender in professional 3d creation environments, where users frequently import external assets including lighting environments and textures. The integer overflow occurs during the file format parsing phase, making it difficult to detect through simple file validation mechanisms. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input sanitization and memory boundary checking, as outlined in CWE-190 for Integer Overflow or Wraparound. The attack can result in arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the running Blender process, potentially leading to data compromise, system persistence, or further network exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2904 should prioritize immediate software updates to Blender versions that address the integer overflow in the RADIANCE file handling code. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies and consider sandboxing mechanisms when processing external 3d assets. Security-conscious users should avoid opening hdr files from untrusted sources and maintain current software versions. The vulnerability also highlights the necessity of input validation testing and code review practices, particularly for applications handling external file formats. Organizations should consider implementing network-level controls to prevent the download and execution of potentially malicious files, while also ensuring that all users understand the risks associated with opening external assets in creative software environments. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing of file import workflows and validation of memory handling routines to prevent similar integer overflow conditions from occurring in other parts of the application.