CVE-2017-9186 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:326:17.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/02/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9186 resides within the AutoTrace 0.31.1 library autotrace component, specifically in the input-bmp.c file at line 326. This issue manifests as a type conversion problem where a value cannot be properly represented within the confines of an int data type, creating a potential buffer overflow or integer overflow condition that could be exploited by malicious actors. The flaw occurs during the processing of bitmap image files, making it particularly concerning for applications that rely on AutoTrace for vector graphics conversion and image processing tasks.
The technical root cause stems from improper handling of image dimensions or pixel data values that exceed the maximum range of a signed 32-bit integer, typically -2,147,483,648 to 2,147,483,647. When the input-bmp.c module processes bitmap files, it attempts to convert or store image metadata values into int variables without adequate validation or overflow checking. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-191, which specifically addresses integer underflow and overflow conditions, and more broadly relates to CWE-129, which covers improper validation of array indices and buffer bounds. The flaw represents a classic example of insufficient input validation and type safety in low-level image processing code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple program crashes or unexpected behavior. When exploited, the integer overflow could potentially lead to memory corruption, allowing attackers to manipulate program execution flow or inject malicious code. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where AutoTrace is used for processing untrusted image files, such as web applications, content management systems, or digital asset management platforms. The vulnerability could enable attackers to perform remote code execution or cause denial of service conditions that could disrupt critical image processing workflows.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9186 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most direct approach involves updating to AutoTrace versions that have addressed this specific integer overflow issue through proper bounds checking and type validation. Organizations should also implement input sanitization measures that validate image file dimensions and metadata before processing, as recommended in the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter. Additionally, deploying runtime protections such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and heap-based buffer overflow protections can help mitigate exploitation attempts. System administrators should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems that utilize AutoTrace for image processing tasks, particularly those handling external or untrusted inputs.