CVE-2017-9153 in AutoTrace
Summary
by MITRE
libautotrace.a in AutoTrace 0.31.1 has a heap-based buffer overflow in the pnm_load_rawpbm function in input-pnm.c:391:13.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/02/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9153 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw within the AutoTrace 0.31.1 software suite, specifically affecting the libautotrace.a library component. This issue manifests within the pnm_load_rawpbm function located in the input-pnm.c source file at line 391, where a memory corruption vulnerability exists that can be exploited by malicious actors. The AutoTrace application serves as a tool for converting bitmap images into vector graphics, making it a component frequently used in graphic design and image processing workflows across various platforms and applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the pnm_load_rawpbm function, which processes Portable AnyMap (PNM) image formats. When the function processes malformed or specially crafted input data, it fails to properly validate the size of buffer allocations against the actual data being read from the PNM file. This discrepancy allows attackers to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries, resulting in heap corruption that can be leveraged for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which specifically addresses heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient validation leads to memory corruption.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it creates opportunities for remote code execution and privilege escalation within systems that utilize AutoTrace for image processing tasks. Attackers could potentially craft malicious PNM files that, when processed by vulnerable AutoTrace implementations, would trigger the buffer overflow and allow for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected process. This risk is particularly concerning in environments where AutoTrace is integrated into larger applications or web services, as it could provide attackers with persistent access to compromised systems. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the attack pattern described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, where adversaries leverage software vulnerabilities to execute malicious code.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9153 should prioritize immediate patching of affected AutoTrace installations to version 0.31.2 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. System administrators should implement input validation measures that restrict the types of image files processed by AutoTrace implementations, particularly when handling untrusted input from external sources. Additionally, deploying memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and data execution prevention can help reduce the exploitability of similar vulnerabilities. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of AutoTrace installations within their environments and ensure proper security controls are implemented to prevent exploitation of this heap-based buffer overflow condition.