CVE-2017-9184 in AutoTrace
Summary
by MITRE
libautotrace.a in AutoTrace 0.31.1 has a "cannot be represented in type int" issue in input-bmp.c:314:7.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/02/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9184 resides within the AutoTrace 0.31.1 library autotrace component, specifically in the input-bmp.c file at line 314. This issue manifests as a type conversion problem where an integer overflow occurs during bitmap processing operations, representing a classic software engineering flaw that can lead to unpredictable behavior and potential security implications. The vulnerability stems from the library's inability to properly handle certain bitmap file structures that exceed the bounds of a standard integer type during processing operations.
The technical flaw involves a direct manipulation of bitmap data where the software attempts to convert or process image dimensions or pixel values that cannot be accurately represented within the confines of a standard int data type. This particular location in the codebase represents a critical point where input validation fails to account for boundary conditions that could cause arithmetic overflow or underflow scenarios. The issue occurs during the parsing of bmp image files where the program encounters values that exceed the maximum representable value for a signed integer, leading to undefined behavior that may result in memory corruption or execution disruption.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to systems that rely on AutoTrace for image processing tasks, particularly in environments where untrusted input is processed. Attackers could potentially exploit this weakness by crafting malicious bitmap files that trigger the integer overflow condition, leading to application crashes, memory corruption, or in more severe cases, arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability falls under the category of buffer overflows and integer overflows as classified by CWE-190, which specifically addresses issues related to integer overflow and underflow conditions that can result in security vulnerabilities.
The impact extends beyond simple application instability, as this type of vulnerability can be leveraged in broader attack scenarios. When combined with other exploitation techniques, such as those described in the ATT&CK framework under software exploitation tactics, this vulnerability could serve as a foothold for more sophisticated attacks. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate error handling within the image processing pipeline, which are common indicators of insecure coding practices that can be systematically addressed through improved software engineering standards.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate code-level fixes including proper input validation, bounds checking, and implementation of appropriate data type handling for image processing operations. System administrators should consider updating to patched versions of AutoTrace where available, while developers should implement comprehensive testing procedures that include fuzzing and boundary condition testing to prevent similar issues in future implementations. The vulnerability underscores the importance of adhering to secure coding practices and following industry standards such as those outlined in the CWE dictionary to prevent similar integer overflow scenarios that can compromise system integrity and security posture.