CVE-2018-3835 in PTEX
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable out of bounds write vulnerability exists in version 2.2 of the Per Face Texture mapping application known as PTEX. The vulnerability is present in the reading of a file without proper parameter checking. The value read in, is not verified to be valid and its use can lead to a buffer overflow, potentially resulting in code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2023
The vulnerability described in CVE-2018-3835 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the Per Face Texture mapping application PTEX version 2.2. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation during file processing operations, specifically when reading texture mapping files. The vulnerability exists in the application's failure to properly validate parameters extracted from input files, creating a scenario where malformed or maliciously crafted data can trigger unintended memory operations. Such flaws are particularly dangerous in graphics and texture processing applications where user-supplied content is commonly processed without sufficient sanitization measures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests through improper bounds checking during file parsing operations. When PTEX reads texture mapping files, it extracts numerical values that define buffer sizes or array dimensions without validating whether these values fall within acceptable ranges. This lack of parameter validation creates a condition where an attacker can craft a specially formatted input file that causes the application to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-129 category of "Improper Validation of Array Index" and aligns with CWE-787 "Out-of-bounds Write" which specifically addresses buffer overflow conditions that occur when writing to memory locations beyond the bounds of allocated buffers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple application instability, potentially enabling remote code execution attacks. When exploited, the out-of-bounds write can overwrite adjacent memory locations, including function pointers, return addresses, or other critical program data structures. This memory corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to gain control of the affected system or cause denial of service conditions. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of PTEX, which is widely used in computer graphics applications, rendering it particularly dangerous in environments where users might process untrusted texture files from external sources. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python" and T1203 "Exploitation for Client Execution" as it enables remote code execution through crafted input files.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-3835 require immediate patching of the affected PTEX version 2.2 to implement proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms. Organizations should deploy security updates from the vendor and consider implementing input sanitization measures for any applications that process texture mapping files. Network segmentation and access controls can help limit exposure by restricting access to systems that process user-supplied content. Additionally, implementing runtime protections such as address space layout randomization and data execution prevention can make exploitation more difficult. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other graphics processing applications that may be susceptible to comparable buffer overflow conditions, ensuring comprehensive protection against similar attack vectors in the broader software ecosystem.