CVE-2017-8358 in LibreOffice
Summary
by MITRE
LibreOffice before 2017-03-17 has an out-of-bounds write caused by a heap-based buffer overflow related to the ReadJPEG function in vcl/source/filter/jpeg/jpegc.cxx.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/02/2022
The vulnerability CVE-2017-8358 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow affecting LibreOffice versions prior to 2017-03-17. This flaw resides within the vcl/source/filter/jpeg/jpegc.cxx source file and specifically targets the ReadJPEG function responsible for processing jpeg image files. The out-of-bounds write condition occurs when the application fails to properly validate or constrain input data during jpeg decoding operations, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted jpeg files can trigger memory corruption. Such vulnerabilities fall under the CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow category, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the improper handling of jpeg file structures during the decoding process. When LibreOffice attempts to read and process jpeg images, the ReadJPEG function does not adequately check array bounds or buffer sizes, allowing attackers to craft malicious jpeg files that exceed allocated memory boundaries. This memory corruption can result in stack smashing, heap corruption, or other memory-related issues that may be leveraged for privilege escalation or remote code execution. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK technique T1203, where adversaries exploit memory corruption vulnerabilities to gain control over system resources.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8358 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it presents a significant security risk for users who process untrusted jpeg files. Attackers can construct malicious jpeg files that, when opened by vulnerable LibreOffice versions, trigger the buffer overflow and potentially allow remote code execution. This threat is particularly concerning given LibreOffice's widespread use in enterprise environments and its role in processing documents from various sources. The vulnerability affects the application's ability to safely handle image content, potentially compromising entire systems when users open compromised documents containing malicious jpeg attachments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-8358 primarily involve updating to LibreOffice version 2017-03-17 or later, which includes patches addressing the heap-based buffer overflow in the jpeg reading functionality. Organizations should also implement defensive measures such as restricting user access to jpeg file attachments, deploying sandboxing mechanisms for document processing, and monitoring for unusual file processing patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, security teams should consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability. The fix implemented in the patched versions demonstrates proper input validation and buffer boundary checking that prevents the out-of-bounds write condition from occurring during jpeg file processing operations.