CVE-2018-16782 in ImageWorsener
Summary
by MITRE
libimageworsener.a in ImageWorsener 1.3.2 has a buffer overflow in the bmpr_read_rle_internal function in imagew-bmp.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-16782 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the ImageWorsener library version 1.3.2, specifically affecting the bmpr_read_rle_internal function located in the imagew-bmp.c source file. This issue arises from inadequate input validation when processing bitmap image files that utilize Run-Length Encoding compression. The flaw manifests when the library attempts to read and decompress RLE-encoded data from bitmap files, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted input can cause memory corruption beyond the allocated buffer boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking during the decompression process of RLE data within bitmap files. When the bmpr_read_rle_internal function processes compressed image data, it fails to properly validate the length of data segments or verify that decompressed output remains within allocated memory buffers. This allows attackers to craft specially formatted bitmap files containing oversized RLE data sequences that exceed the intended buffer capacity, leading to memory overwrite conditions. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking permits access beyond allocated memory regions, and potentially CWE-787, which addresses out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents significant security implications for systems that utilize ImageWorsener for image processing tasks, particularly in web applications, content management systems, or any environment where user-uploaded images are processed. Attackers can exploit this flaw by submitting maliciously crafted bitmap files that trigger the buffer overflow during image parsing, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution, application crashes, or system compromise. The impact extends beyond simple denial of service, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute malicious code within the context of the vulnerable application, making this a particularly dangerous vulnerability for server-side image processing systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-16782 should prioritize immediate patching of the ImageWorsener library to version 1.3.3 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement input validation measures that restrict bitmap file processing to known good formats and sizes, while also deploying defensive programming practices such as bounds checking and memory sanitization techniques. Network-based mitigations could include implementing file type validation and content scanning for image uploads, while application-level protections should enforce strict input parameter validation and employ address space layout randomization. The remediation approach should align with ATT&CK technique T1203, which addresses the exploitation of input validation vulnerabilities, and should incorporate defensive measures consistent with the principle of least privilege to minimize potential impact from successful exploitation attempts.