CVE-2017-5505 in Jasper
Summary
by MITRE
The jas_matrix_asl function in jas_seq.c in JasPer 1.900.27 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (invalid memory read and crash) via a crafted image.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/09/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5505 represents a critical denial of service flaw within the JasPer image processing library version 1.900.27. This issue resides in the jas_matrix_asl function located within the jas_seq.c source file, demonstrating how seemingly minor implementation details can create significant security risks in multimedia processing software. The vulnerability specifically affects applications that utilize JasPer for handling image formats, particularly those employing the JPEG 2000 standard, making it relevant to a wide range of systems including web servers, image processing applications, and multimedia frameworks that depend on this library for image manipulation tasks.
The technical flaw manifests through an invalid memory read condition that occurs when the jas_matrix_asl function processes malformed image data. This function is responsible for managing memory allocation and sequence handling within the JasPer library, and when confronted with crafted image payloads, it fails to properly validate input parameters before attempting memory operations. The vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking and memory management practices within the function, allowing attackers to construct specially formatted image files that trigger memory access violations. This type of flaw typically falls under CWE-125: Out-of-bounds Read, which is categorized as a memory safety issue in the Common Weakness Enumeration framework, and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can lead to system instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption, as it can be exploited remotely by attackers who craft malicious image files designed to trigger the memory read error during normal image processing operations. Systems that automatically process user-uploaded images, such as web applications, content management systems, or image hosting services, become particularly vulnerable to this attack vector. When exploited, the vulnerability results in immediate application crashes and potential system instability, effectively rendering the targeted service unavailable to legitimate users. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not need physical access to the system or elevated privileges, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in networked environments where image processing services are exposed to untrusted inputs.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-5505 primarily focus on immediate library updates and input validation enhancements. The most effective solution involves upgrading to a patched version of JasPer that addresses the memory management issues within the jas_matrix_asl function, typically found in versions 2.0.0 and later. Organizations should also implement robust input validation measures, including image format verification, size restrictions, and preliminary scanning of uploaded files before processing. Additionally, deployment of network-based intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts by monitoring for suspicious image file patterns that may indicate attempts to trigger this vulnerability. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with the T1499.004 technique related to network denial of service and represents a classic example of how application-level flaws can be leveraged for system disruption, emphasizing the importance of proper memory management and input validation in preventing such attacks.