CVE-2018-12265 in Exiv2
Summary
by MITRE
Exiv2 0.26 has an integer overflow in the LoaderExifJpeg class in preview.cpp, leading to an out-of-bounds read in Exiv2::MemIo::read in basicio.cpp.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/27/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-12265 resides within the Exiv2 library version 0.26, specifically manifesting in the LoaderExifJpeg class located in preview.cpp. This flaw represents a critical integer overflow condition that occurs during the processing of jpeg image files containing embedded exif metadata. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation when handling certain malformed jpeg structures, particularly those with crafted exif data that triggers unexpected behavior in the library's memory management routines.
The technical execution of this vulnerability begins with the LoaderExifJpeg class parsing jpeg image data and subsequently passing control to Exiv2::MemIo::read function in basicio.cpp. When the integer overflow occurs, it results in an out-of-bounds read operation that can potentially allow attackers to access memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries. This memory corruption scenario typically arises when the library attempts to allocate memory or calculate buffer sizes based on manipulated exif data fields that exceed normal integer limits. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-190 as an integer overflow condition, which directly enables memory corruption and potential code execution scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory access violations to potentially enable remote code execution in applications that utilize Exiv2 for image processing. Systems relying on Exiv2 for handling user-uploaded images or processing exif metadata from external sources become vulnerable to exploitation. Attackers can craft malicious jpeg files that, when processed by vulnerable applications, trigger the integer overflow and subsequent out-of-bounds read. This creates a significant risk for web applications, content management systems, and any software that processes jpeg images without proper input sanitization. The vulnerability affects the broader attack surface defined by ATT&CK technique T1203, specifically targeting software exploitation through memory corruption vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-12265 should prioritize immediate patching of Exiv2 library components to version 0.27 or later, where the integer overflow has been addressed through proper input validation and boundary checking mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive input sanitization for all image file processing workflows, particularly those involving user-uploaded content. Additionally, deployment of web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help detect and block malicious image files before they reach the application processing layer. Memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and data execution prevention should be enabled to reduce the exploitation potential even if the vulnerability is not immediately patched. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for outdated Exiv2 installations to prevent exploitation of this and similar memory corruption vulnerabilities.