CVE-2018-3923 in PhotoLine
Summary
by MITRE
A memory corruption vulnerability exists in the PCX-parsing functionality of Computerinsel Photoline 20.54. A specially crafted PCX image processed via the application can lead to an out-of-bounds write, overwriting arbitrary data. An attacker can deliver a PCX image to trigger this vulnerability and gain code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-3923 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Computerinsel Photoline 20.54's PCX image parsing implementation. This issue manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs when the application processes specially crafted PCX image files. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the image parsing routine, creating a pathway for malicious code execution. The vulnerability specifically affects the handling of PCX format files which are commonly used for storing raster graphics and bitmap images in various graphic design applications. Attackers can exploit this weakness by preparing a malicious PCX file that, when opened or processed by the vulnerable software, triggers the memory corruption.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it firmly within the category of buffer overflow conditions, specifically manifesting as an out-of-bounds write operation that can overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of flaw typically originates from improper handling of image metadata or pixel data structures during the parsing phase. The lack of proper validation for image dimensions, color palette information, or compression parameters in PCX files allows attackers to craft inputs that exceed expected memory boundaries. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it operates at the application level without requiring elevated privileges, making it accessible to remote attackers who can deliver malicious files through various attack vectors.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-3923 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass potential system compromise and data integrity violations. When successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to overwrite critical memory segments including function pointers, return addresses, or program variables that could lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the Photoline application. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where graphic design applications process untrusted image files from external sources. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in complete system compromise, data theft, or persistent backdoor installation. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically through the use of PowerShell or similar scripting capabilities, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. The attack chain typically involves initial compromise through file delivery, followed by exploitation of the memory corruption to execute malicious payloads with the privileges of the affected application.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-3923 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves applying the vendor-provided security patch or update that addresses the specific memory handling issues within the PCX parsing functionality. Organizations should also implement strict file validation policies that restrict the types of image files processed by graphic applications, particularly those from untrusted sources. Network-based defenses can include implementing file type filtering at network boundaries to prevent malicious PCX files from reaching endpoints. Additionally, application sandboxing and privilege separation techniques can limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments of image processing applications and implementation of secure coding practices including bounds checking, input validation, and memory safety mechanisms should be enforced across all graphic design software. System administrators should also monitor for unusual file processing activities and implement automated threat detection systems that can identify potential exploitation attempts through anomalous memory access patterns or unexpected code execution sequences.