CVE-2017-5331 in icoutils
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the check_offset function in b/wrestool/fileread.c in icoutils before 0.31.1 allows local users to cause a denial of service (process crash) and execute arbitrary code via a crafted executable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/24/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5331 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the icoutils package, specifically affecting the check_offset function located in b/wrestool/fileread.c. This issue exists in versions prior to 0.31.1 and demonstrates a classic software security weakness that can be exploited by local attackers to achieve both denial of service and arbitrary code execution. The flaw occurs when the application processes crafted executable files, creating conditions where integer arithmetic operations exceed the maximum representable value for the data type, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and handling of file offsets within the wrestool utility, which is part of the icoutils suite used for extracting and manipulating icon and cursor files from executable binaries. When the check_offset function processes malformed input data, it fails to properly validate the arithmetic operations that calculate file offsets, allowing an attacker to craft specially designed executable files that trigger integer overflow conditions. This overflow can result in memory corruption, where the application's memory layout becomes compromised, potentially enabling attackers to manipulate program execution flow. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow and underflow conditions, and represents a common vector for privilege escalation attacks due to the local execution context required for exploitation.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-5331 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as local attackers with minimal privileges can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This capability significantly increases the attack surface for systems running vulnerable versions of icoutils, particularly in environments where users might have the ability to process untrusted executable files. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious software installation, file processing automation, or when system administrators use the wrestool utility to analyze potentially compromised executable files. From an adversarial perspective, this flaw maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-5331 primarily involve upgrading to icoutils version 0.31.1 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the integer overflow condition. System administrators should also implement comprehensive input validation measures and consider deploying additional security controls such as file type restrictions, sandboxed processing environments, and regular security audits of system utilities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper integer handling in security-critical applications and demonstrates why defensive programming practices, including bounds checking and input sanitization, are essential for maintaining software integrity. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely deployment of security updates and reduce the window of exposure for known vulnerabilities.