CVE-2017-9873 in IrfanView
Summary
by MITRE
IrfanView version 4.44 (32bit) with FPX Plugin 4.46 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service via a crafted .fpx file, related to a "Read Access Violation on Control Flow starting at FPX!GetPlugInInfo+0x0000000000012bf2."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/22/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9873 affects IrfanView version 4.44 when used with the FPX Plugin version 4.46, representing a critical security flaw that enables remote code execution or denial of service attacks through manipulation of specially crafted .fpx files. This issue stems from a fundamental flaw in how the application processes FPX image files, specifically within the control flow management of the GetPlugInInfo function. The vulnerability manifests as a Read Access Violation occurring at the memory address FPX!GetPlugInInfo+0x0000000000012bf2, indicating that the plugin fails to properly validate input data before attempting to execute code paths that lead to memory access violations. The flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition that can be exploited by attackers who craft malicious FPX files designed to trigger the vulnerable code path.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern within software security that aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-119, which covers weak buffer access controls. When an attacker supplies a malicious .fpx file to IrfanView, the application's FPX plugin attempts to parse the file structure and execute the GetPlugInInfo function, which contains insufficient input validation mechanisms. This allows attackers to manipulate memory contents through carefully constructed file headers that cause the application to jump to unintended execution paths. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the attack technique described in MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1203, which involves the exploitation of input validation flaws in applications to achieve arbitrary code execution. The control flow violation occurs because the plugin does not properly check array bounds or validate the structure of incoming data before processing it, leading to unpredictable memory access patterns that can be leveraged for malicious purposes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass full system compromise when exploited effectively. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code within the context of the IrfanView process, potentially gaining access to sensitive system resources, executing malicious payloads, or establishing persistent access to the affected system. The vulnerability affects both local and remote attack scenarios since FPX files can be delivered through various vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing platforms. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may inadvertently open malicious files, and the attack surface is broadened by the widespread use of IrfanView for image viewing across different operating systems and applications. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that many users may not be aware of the potential risks associated with viewing image files from untrusted sources, making social engineering attacks particularly effective.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9873 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected software components, with the vendor releasing updated versions of both IrfanView and the FPX plugin that include proper input validation and memory access controls. Organizations should implement network-based controls such as file type filtering and sandboxing mechanisms to prevent execution of potentially malicious FPX files, particularly in environments where users may not be security-aware. The recommended approach aligns with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks, emphasizing defense in depth strategies that include both application-level controls and network-level protections. System administrators should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools that can detect the presence of vulnerable software versions and provide alerts when potentially malicious files are encountered. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the importance of avoiding opening image files from untrusted sources, particularly when these files are received through email or downloaded from unknown websites. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software and implementing robust input validation controls in all application components, particularly those that handle user-supplied data or external file formats.