CVE-2020-11760 in OpenEXR
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in OpenEXR before 2.4.1. There is an out-of-bounds read during RLE uncompression in rleUncompress in ImfRle.cpp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2020-11760 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw within the OpenEXR image processing library version 2.4.1 and earlier. This issue manifests during the decompression process of RLE (Run-Length Encoding) compressed data streams, specifically within the rleUncompress function located in the ImfRle.cpp source file. OpenEXR is a widely adopted high dynamic-range image file format commonly used in professional visual effects, animation, and computer graphics applications where image data integrity is paramount. The vulnerability arises when the library processes malformed or maliciously crafted RLE compressed data, creating a scenario where the decompression routine accesses memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the RLE decompression algorithm. When the rleUncompress function processes compressed data, it fails to properly validate the size parameters or buffer limits before performing memory reads. This allows an attacker to craft specially formatted image files that trigger the out-of-bounds memory access when the decompression routine attempts to read beyond the intended data boundaries. The flaw falls under the CWE-129 weakness category, specifically addressing improper validation of array indices or buffer bounds, which is a fundamental security principle in memory safety. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including file processing, network-based image streaming, or any scenario where OpenEXR processes external image data without proper sanitization.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-11760 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it can potentially lead to arbitrary code execution or system compromise when exploited in the context of applications that rely on OpenEXR for image processing. This vulnerability affects numerous applications including major animation software, visual effects pipelines, and digital asset management systems that utilize OpenEXR for storing and transmitting high-quality image data. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where users may unknowingly process malicious image files, such as in content delivery networks, online image repositories, or collaborative creative workflows. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, as it enables remote code execution through the processing of crafted image files, and T1068 - Exploitation for Privilege Escalation when exploited in contexts with elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-11760 primarily involve upgrading to OpenEXR version 2.4.1 or later, which includes proper bounds checking and input validation mechanisms for the RLE decompression routine. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management protocols to ensure all systems processing OpenEXR files receive the security update promptly. Additional defensive measures include deploying input validation controls at network boundaries, implementing sandboxing mechanisms for image processing pipelines, and conducting regular security assessments of applications that utilize OpenEXR libraries. Security teams should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect anomalous image processing patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, while maintaining detailed logs of file processing activities for forensic analysis purposes. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of memory safety in image processing libraries and the need for rigorous input validation in multimedia applications.