CVE-2019-5099 in LEADTOOLS
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable integer underflow vulnerability exists in the CMP-parsing functionality of LEADTOOLS 20. A specially crafted CMP image file can cause an integer underflow, potentially resulting in code execution. An attacker can specially craft a CMP image to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-5099 represents a critical integer underflow flaw within the LEADTOOLS 20 image processing library, specifically affecting the CMP (Compressed Metafile) file parsing functionality. This issue falls under the CWE-191 Integer Underflow category, where a signed integer is decremented below its minimum representable value, creating unpredictable behavior that can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability exists in the handling of compressed metafile image formats, which are commonly used in medical imaging and other specialized applications where LEADTOOLS is extensively deployed.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the CMP image parser processes malformed input data that triggers an integer underflow condition during memory allocation or buffer boundary calculations. When an attacker crafts a specially designed CMP file with manipulated header values or metadata, the parser fails to properly validate integer parameters before performing arithmetic operations, leading to a scenario where a negative integer value is used in memory allocation calculations. This underflow can cause heap-based buffer overflows or other memory corruption conditions that may allow arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the image parsing chain, making it accessible through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or file transfers.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-5099 extends across multiple security domains and attack surfaces where LEADTOOLS 20 is implemented. Organizations utilizing this library for medical imaging systems, document management platforms, or any application processing compressed metafile images face significant risk exposure. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution, where attackers leverage application-specific vulnerabilities to execute malicious code on target systems. Systems running vulnerable versions of LEADTOOLS are susceptible to remote code execution attacks, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive data, system compromise, or lateral movement within network environments. The attack surface is particularly broad given that CMP files can be embedded in various document formats and are commonly processed by applications without user interaction.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-5099 should prioritize immediate patching of affected LEADTOOLS 20 installations, as this represents the most effective defense against exploitation. Organizations should implement strict input validation mechanisms for all CMP file processing, including comprehensive boundary checks and integer overflow/underflow protections. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can provide additional defense layers to limit potential exploitation paths. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file processing patterns or memory allocation behaviors that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust integer handling in security-critical applications and underscores the need for adherence to secure coding practices as outlined in OWASP Secure Coding Practices. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify other potential integer-related vulnerabilities in similar image processing libraries and applications.