CVE-2019-5058 in SDL2_image
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable code execution vulnerability exists in the XCF image rendering functionality of SDL2_image 2.0.4. A specially crafted XCF image can cause a heap overflow, resulting in code execution. An attacker can display a specially crafted image to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/14/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-5058 represents a critical heap overflow flaw within the SDL2_image library version 2.0.4, specifically affecting the XCF image rendering functionality. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and memory management when processing XCF (eXperimental Computer Format) image files, which are commonly used in the GIMP image editing software. The flaw allows attackers to craft malicious XCF files that, when processed by vulnerable applications, can trigger unauthorized code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates at the image rendering layer, making it accessible through any application that utilizes SDL2_image for image processing, including games, multimedia applications, and image viewers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a heap-based buffer overflow that occurs during the parsing of XCF image headers and metadata structures. When the SDL2_image library attempts to render a malicious XCF file, the flawed memory allocation routines fail to properly validate the size parameters embedded within the XCF format's internal structure. This leads to memory corruption where attacker-controlled data overflows into adjacent heap memory regions, potentially allowing for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a heap-based buffer overflow, which directly maps to the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands within the context of the vulnerable application.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-5058 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can be leveraged for privilege escalation and persistent access within compromised systems. Attackers can craft XCF files that not only trigger the heap overflow but also manipulate the corrupted memory to redirect execution flow to malicious payloads. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter untrusted image files through web browsing, email attachments, or file sharing platforms. The exploitability factor is high due to the straightforward nature of image file manipulation and the widespread use of SDL2_image across multiple software platforms, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools and zero-day attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-5058 primarily focus on immediate remediation through version updates, as SDL2_image 2.0.5 and later versions contain patches addressing the heap overflow conditions. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management protocols to ensure all affected applications are updated promptly. Additionally, input validation measures should be enhanced at application layers that utilize SDL2_image, including implementing strict file format checking and sandboxing techniques. Network-level defenses such as email filtering and web content scanning can help prevent delivery of malicious XCF files to end users. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual image processing activities and memory allocation patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, while application whitelisting can restrict execution of untrusted image rendering processes. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management and input validation in multimedia libraries, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for software development lifecycle security controls.