CVE-2018-11624 in ImageMagick
Summary
by MITRE
In ImageMagick 7.0.7-36 Q16, the ReadMATImage function in coders/mat.c allows attackers to cause a use after free via a crafted file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/19/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-11624 represents a critical use after free condition within ImageMagick's MAT file handling functionality. This flaw exists in version 7.0.7-36 Q16 where the ReadMATImage function in the coders/mat.c source file fails to properly manage memory allocation and deallocation sequences. The issue arises when processing specially crafted MAT files that contain malformed data structures, leading to scenarios where memory previously freed by the application is accessed or reused by subsequent operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of MAT file format structures that ImageMagick uses to store matrix data. When the ReadMATImage function processes these malformed files, it performs memory operations that result in a situation where a pointer references memory that has already been deallocated. This memory management error creates opportunities for attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause application crashes. The vulnerability falls under CWE-416 which specifically addresses use after free conditions, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged for remote code execution in applications that process untrusted image files.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to systems that utilize ImageMagick for image processing tasks, particularly in web applications, content management systems, and any environment where users can upload or submit image files. The attack vector is relatively straightforward as it requires only the delivery of a malicious MAT file to trigger the memory corruption. This makes the vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors who can leverage it in automated attacks against web applications that process user uploads. The impact extends beyond simple application crashes to potentially full system compromise when exploited in the right context.
Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability. Immediate remediation involves upgrading to ImageMagick versions that have patched this memory management issue, typically versions 7.0.8-16 or later. Additionally, implementing strict file validation and sanitization processes can prevent malicious MAT files from being processed. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can further reduce attack surface by limiting which systems can process image files. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, highlighting the need for defensive measures that focus on preventing code execution in vulnerable applications. System administrators should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify attempts to exploit this specific memory corruption pattern and monitor for unusual memory access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.