CVE-2020-22628 in LibRaw
Summary
by MITRE • 08/22/2023
Buffer Overflow vulnerability in LibRaw::stretch() function in libraw\src\postprocessing\aspect_ratio.cpp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2025
The CVE-2020-22628 vulnerability represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the LibRaw library's image processing functionality, specifically affecting the stretch() function in the postprocessing spect_ratio.cpp component. This vulnerability resides in the LibRaw library which is widely used for processing raw image files from digital cameras and other imaging devices. The buffer overflow occurs when the library processes certain malformed or specially crafted image files that trigger improper memory handling during the stretch operation, which is typically used to adjust image contrast and brightness levels. The flaw affects applications that depend on LibRaw for image processing, including photo editing software, digital asset management systems, and various imaging applications across multiple platforms.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the stretch() function implementation. When processing image data, the function fails to properly validate input parameters and memory allocation sizes, allowing an attacker to craft malicious image files that cause the program to write beyond allocated memory boundaries. This memory corruption can occur during the spectral ratio calculation process, where the function manipulates image data in ways that exceed predetermined buffer limits. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited through image file manipulation, making it accessible to attackers who can induce vulnerable applications to process maliciously crafted images. The flaw operates at the intersection of improper input validation and memory safety issues, aligning with CWE-121 which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions and CWE-787 which covers out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-22628 extends beyond simple application crashes, potentially enabling arbitrary code execution on systems running vulnerable software. When exploited, this vulnerability can allow attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected application, potentially leading to full system compromise. The attack surface includes any software that utilizes LibRaw for image processing, encompassing photo editing suites, content management systems, web applications that process user-uploaded images, and digital photography tools. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction, as simply opening or processing a malicious image file can trigger the buffer overflow condition, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users may encounter untrusted image content. This makes the vulnerability especially relevant in web-based applications and services that handle user-generated content, where attackers can leverage the flaw to gain unauthorized access to systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-22628 should focus on immediate patching of affected LibRaw versions, with organizations prioritizing updates to the latest stable releases that contain fixes for the buffer overflow vulnerability. System administrators should implement input validation measures to filter potentially malicious image files before they reach applications using LibRaw, while also monitoring for unusual memory usage patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through scripting and T1203 for exploitation of software vulnerabilities, making it important for security teams to monitor for these attack patterns. Additionally, deploying application whitelisting controls and restricting file type processing can help limit the attack surface, while regular security assessments should verify that no other vulnerable components exist within the application stack that might be susceptible to similar buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should also consider implementing memory protection mechanisms such as address space layout randomization and data execution prevention to reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts.