CVE-2017-9162 in AutoTrace
Summary
by MITRE
libautotrace.a in AutoTrace 0.31.1 has a "cannot be represented in type int" issue in autotrace.c:191:2.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/02/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9162 resides within the AutoTrace 0.31.1 library autotrace.c file at line 191, where a critical type conversion issue manifests as "cannot be represented in type int". This flaw represents a classic integer overflow or truncation vulnerability that occurs when attempting to process image data that exceeds the maximum value representable by a signed 32-bit integer. The issue stems from improper handling of large numerical values during the automatic tracing process that converts raster images into vector graphics, making it particularly dangerous in image processing applications.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the insufficient data type validation and conversion mechanisms within the autotrace.c source file. When the library processes certain complex or high-resolution images, it encounters numerical values that exceed the range of standard int data types, leading to unexpected behavior during the vectorization process. This condition creates a scenario where the program attempts to store a value that cannot fit within the allocated integer storage, potentially causing buffer overflows, memory corruption, or arbitrary code execution depending on how the system handles the overflow condition. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-191 as an Integer Underflow or Overflow, specifically manifesting as an integer truncation error.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents significant risks to systems utilizing AutoTrace for image conversion tasks, particularly in environments where untrusted input is processed. Attackers could potentially craft malicious image files that trigger the integer overflow condition, leading to denial of service attacks or more severe exploitation possibilities. The impact extends beyond simple application crashes, as the integer truncation could result in memory corruption that allows for privilege escalation or code execution in vulnerable contexts. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in web applications or document processing systems that rely on AutoTrace for automated image conversion, as these environments often process user-supplied content without adequate input sanitization.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9162 should focus on immediate code-level fixes including proper integer type validation and the implementation of larger data types to accommodate expected value ranges. System administrators should ensure that AutoTrace installations are updated to versions that address this specific integer overflow condition, while developers should implement input validation routines that prevent processing of images likely to trigger the overflow scenario. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 by potentially enabling privilege escalation through memory corruption, and T1059 by allowing for command execution through compromised processes. Organizations should also consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for image processing tasks and regular security assessments to identify similar type conversion vulnerabilities in other libraries and applications.