CVE-2017-9192 in AutoTrace
Summary
by MITRE
libautotrace.a in AutoTrace 0.31.1 has a heap-based buffer overflow in the ReadImage function in input-tga.c:528:7.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/02/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9192 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the AutoTrace 0.31.1 software library known as libautotrace.a. This flaw specifically manifests within the ReadImage function located in the input-tga.c file at line 528, where a seven-byte buffer overflow occurs. The AutoTrace library serves as a utility for converting bitmap images into vector graphics, making it a component frequently utilized in graphic design and image processing workflows. The buffer overflow vulnerability arises from insufficient bounds checking when processing TGA (Targa) image files, which are commonly used in computer graphics applications. When an attacker provides a malformed or specially crafted TGA file, the application fails to properly validate the input data size against the allocated buffer space, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited for arbitrary code execution.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it under CWE-121, which categorizes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to write beyond allocated memory boundaries. This particular implementation flaw demonstrates how input validation failures in image processing libraries can create dangerous attack vectors. The ReadImage function in input-tga.c processes TGA file headers and pixel data without adequate verification of buffer limits, particularly when handling image dimensions that exceed expected parameters. The heap overflow occurs because the code allocates memory based on initial assumptions about image size but fails to verify that subsequent data processing respects these boundaries. This vulnerability directly enables memory corruption that can be leveraged by attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-9192 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it creates a potential pathway for remote code execution within applications that utilize the AutoTrace library. Systems utilizing AutoTrace for image conversion, graphic design software, or automated processing pipelines become vulnerable to exploitation when they process untrusted TGA files from external sources. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where automated image processing is performed, such as web applications that accept user-uploaded graphics, content management systems, or graphic design platforms. Attackers could craft malicious TGA files designed to trigger the buffer overflow during normal image processing operations, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in server environments where AutoTrace might be used as part of automated processing workflows.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9192 should focus on immediate software updates and input validation improvements. The primary solution involves upgrading to AutoTrace versions that contain patches addressing the buffer overflow condition, as the maintainers have released updated versions that properly validate input parameters and implement appropriate bounds checking. Organizations should also implement defensive programming practices such as using memory-safe programming languages or incorporating stack canaries and address space layout randomization to reduce exploitability. Additionally, input sanitization measures including strict validation of TGA file headers and size parameters can prevent malformed data from reaching the vulnerable code paths. Security teams should monitor for any applications that utilize the affected AutoTrace library and ensure proper patch management protocols are in place to prevent exploitation. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection, as exploitation could enable attackers to execute malicious code within the application context, potentially leading to further lateral movement within compromised systems.