CVE-2020-23554 in IrfanView
Summary
by MITRE • 09/16/2022
IrfanView 4.54 allows a user-mode write access violation starting at FORMATS!GetPlugInInfo+0x0000000000007e20.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-23554 represents a critical user-mode write access violation within IrfanView version 4.54, specifically manifesting at the FORMATS!GetPlugInInfo function address 0x0000000000007e20. This flaw exists within the image viewing application's plugin handling mechanism, where improper memory management allows attackers to manipulate write operations in user mode. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and memory bounds checking during plugin information retrieval processes, creating opportunities for arbitrary code execution or system instability.
This issue falls under the category of memory corruption vulnerabilities and aligns with CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is significant as it occurs within the application's core processing functions where plugin data is handled. Attackers can leverage this weakness by crafting malicious plugin files or manipulated image formats that trigger the vulnerable code path, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The specific address offset suggests this is a well-defined memory access violation that could be reliably exploited by adversaries familiar with the application's internal structure.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-23554 extends beyond simple application crashes, as it enables adversaries to potentially execute malicious code within the context of the IrfanView process. This vulnerability can be particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently open untrusted image files or plugins, making it a prime target for phishing campaigns or supply chain attacks. The user-mode nature of the vulnerability means that exploitation does not require kernel-level privileges, making it accessible to a broader range of threat actors. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and potentially T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate application updates to versions that address the memory management flaw, implementation of application whitelisting policies, and network segmentation to limit exposure. System administrators should also deploy process monitoring tools to detect anomalous memory access patterns and consider implementing exploit protection mechanisms such as data execution prevention and address space layout randomization. Additionally, user education regarding safe file handling practices and the avoidance of untrusted plugin sources remains crucial in preventing exploitation of this class of vulnerability. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation and memory safety practices in image processing applications, particularly those handling third-party plugin extensions.