CVE-2018-16412 in ImageMagick
Summary
by MITRE
ImageMagick 7.0.8-11 Q16 has a heap-based buffer over-read in the coders/psd.c ParseImageResourceBlocks function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/06/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-16412 represents a critical heap-based buffer over-read flaw within ImageMagick's PSD file parser, specifically in the ParseImageResourceBlocks function located in coders/psd.c. This issue affects ImageMagick version 7.0.8-11 and earlier versions, where the software fails to properly validate input data when processing Photoshop Document format files. The flaw occurs during the parsing of image resource blocks within PSD files, creating a scenario where the application reads memory beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially exposing sensitive data or enabling arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the ParseImageResourceBlocks function, which processes various resource blocks contained within PSD files. When ImageMagick encounters malformed or specially crafted PSD files, the parser attempts to read data beyond the intended buffer limits, causing a heap-based buffer over-read condition. This condition can be exploited by attackers who craft malicious PSD files designed to trigger the vulnerable code path, leading to potential information disclosure or system compromise. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read, which represents a common class of memory safety issues that can be leveraged for privilege escalation or denial of service attacks.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations that process untrusted image files, particularly those utilizing ImageMagick for web applications, content management systems, or automated image processing pipelines. The attack surface expands when ImageMagick is integrated into web services, file upload handlers, or document conversion tools, as these systems may be exposed to malicious file uploads from untrusted users. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as buffer over-read conditions can potentially lead to stack corruption, memory corruption, or even remote code execution depending on the system configuration and memory layout. Security researchers have noted that exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the attack pattern taxonomy, particularly those involving input validation failures and memory corruption attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-16412 primarily focus on immediate software updates to versions that address the buffer over-read condition in the PSD parser. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to ImageMagick 7.0.8-12 or later releases where the vulnerability has been patched through proper bounds checking implementation. Additionally, implementing strict input validation and sanitization measures, including file type detection, size limitations, and content scanning, can provide defense-in-depth protection. System administrators should consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms and restricted execution environments when processing image files, particularly those from untrusted sources. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and file upload restrictions can further reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management practices and input validation, aligning with security best practices outlined in various industry standards including the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing memory safety issues in image processing libraries and multimedia applications.