CVE-2017-9207 in ImageWorsener
Summary
by MITRE
The iw_get_ui16be function in imagew-util.c:422:24 in libimageworsener.a in ImageWorsener 1.3.1 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (heap-based buffer over-read) via a crafted image, related to imagew-jpeg.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9207 represents a critical heap-based buffer over-read flaw within the ImageWorsener library version 1.3.1. This issue specifically manifests in the iw_get_ui16be function located in the imagew-util.c file at line 422, where the function processes unsigned 16-bit big-endian values during image handling operations. The flaw occurs when the library processes crafted image files, particularly those involving jpeg format handling through the imagew-jpeg.c component, creating a scenario where memory access exceeds allocated boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the image parsing routine. When the iw_get_ui16be function attempts to read 16-bit values from image data structures, it fails to validate the boundaries of the input buffer against the actual data available. This oversight allows attackers to construct malicious image files with carefully crafted metadata or pixel data that triggers the function to access memory locations beyond the intended buffer limits. The heap-based nature of the over-read indicates that the vulnerable code operates on dynamically allocated memory segments, making the exploitation potentially more severe as it can lead to information disclosure or system instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as it creates potential pathways for more sophisticated attacks within systems that rely on ImageWorsener for image processing. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to cause applications using the library to crash or behave unpredictably, effectively creating a denial of service condition that can impact availability of services. The vulnerability affects any system where ImageWorsener is integrated into image processing workflows, including web applications, content management systems, and digital asset management platforms that accept user-uploaded images.
Security practitioners should consider this vulnerability in the context of CWE-129, which addresses insufficient validation of length of inputs, and potentially CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. The attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves exploitation of input validation flaws to cause system instability, and T1499, which encompasses denial of service attacks targeting application availability. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of the ImageWorsener library to version 1.3.2 or later, implementing input validation measures for image uploads, and deploying network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application sandboxing and input sanitization techniques to reduce the attack surface and prevent potential exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in related components.