CVE-2017-5332 in icoutils
Summary
by MITRE
The extract_group_icon_cursor_resource in wrestool/extract.c in icoutils before 0.31.1 can access unallocated memory, which 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 • 11/01/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5332 resides within the icoutils package, specifically in the wrestool utility's extract_group_icon_cursor_resource function located in wrestool/extract.c. This flaw represents a classic buffer over-read condition that occurs when processing malformed executable files containing crafted icon or cursor resources. The vulnerability affects icoutils versions prior to 0.31.1, making it a significant concern for systems that rely on this utility for icon extraction from windows executables. The issue stems from inadequate bounds checking during resource parsing operations, where the application fails to properly validate the size and structure of icon cursor data before attempting to access memory regions that may not be allocated or accessible.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates a clear path to privilege escalation and system compromise. When a local attacker provides a specially crafted executable file containing malformed icon or cursor resources, the extract_group_icon_cursor_resource function attempts to read beyond allocated memory boundaries. This uncontrolled memory access can result in either a segmentation fault causing process termination or more critically, allow for arbitrary code execution through memory corruption techniques. The vulnerability operates at the binary parsing level, where the application's resource extraction logic does not properly validate input data before dereferencing pointers, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute malicious payloads. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1059 for execution through command and scripting interpreters.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-5332 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass full system compromise potential. Local users can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the wrestool utility, potentially leading to privilege escalation if the utility is run with elevated permissions. Systems that process untrusted executable files through icoutils, such as file analysis systems, automated malware scanners, or software packaging tools, become particularly vulnerable. The vulnerability's local nature means that any user with access to the system can potentially exploit it, making it a critical concern for multi-user environments and server systems where the wrestool utility might be used for legitimate purposes but could be targeted by malicious users. Additionally, the lack of proper input validation makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous in automated processing environments where files are processed without human intervention.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-5332 focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to icoutils version 0.31.1 or later, which includes proper bounds checking and memory validation in the affected function. Organizations should also implement defensive programming practices such as input sanitization and memory access validation before processing potentially malicious files. System administrators should consider restricting execution privileges for the wrestool utility and implementing proper access controls to limit who can execute it with elevated permissions. Additionally, deploying intrusion detection systems that monitor for unusual file processing activities or memory access patterns can help detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper software security practices including code reviews, static analysis, and dynamic testing to identify similar memory safety issues in other applications. Regular security assessments of third-party tools and libraries should be conducted to ensure that known vulnerabilities are promptly addressed through patch management processes.