CVE-2020-28596 in PrusaSlicer
Summary
by MITRE • 02/11/2021
A stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the Objparser::objparse() functionality of Prusa Research PrusaSlicer 2.2.0 and Master (commit 4b040b856). A specially crafted obj file can lead to code execution. An attacker can provide a malicious file to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/27/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-28596 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the PrusaSlicer software ecosystem, specifically affecting versions 2.2.0 and the Master branch up to commit 4b040b856. This flaw resides in the Objparser::objparse() function which processes object files during the slicing workflow for 3D printing operations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and bounds checking when parsing maliciously crafted .obj files, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. Such buffer overflow conditions are particularly dangerous in applications that process untrusted data, as they can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. The flaw manifests when the software attempts to parse malformed object data that exceeds the allocated buffer space, leading to potential memory corruption and unauthorized code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows standard stack-based buffer overflow patterns where attacker-controlled data is fed into the Objparser::objparse() function without proper sanitization. When processing a specially crafted .obj file, the parser fails to validate the size of incoming data against predetermined buffer limits, causing a classic stack overflow condition. This allows an attacker to overwrite return addresses, function pointers, and other critical stack data structures, potentially enabling remote code execution. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which classifies buffer overflows occurring in stack-allocated memory regions. The attack vector requires the victim to open or process a malicious .obj file through PrusaSlicer, making this a file-based exploit that can be delivered via phishing campaigns or compromised software distribution channels. The exploitability is further enhanced by the fact that PrusaSlicer is commonly used in both personal and industrial environments where users may not be security-aware.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-28596 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can compromise the entire 3D printing workflow and potentially affect connected systems. In professional environments, this vulnerability could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive manufacturing processes, disrupt production workflows, or even manipulate 3D printed components. The software's role in the 3D printing pipeline means that successful exploitation could affect supply chain integrity, intellectual property protection, and safety protocols. Attackers could potentially use this vulnerability to inject malicious code into the slicing process, which would then be executed during the 3D printing operation, potentially causing physical harm or data breaches. The vulnerability affects users who rely on PrusaSlicer for critical manufacturing operations, making it particularly concerning for industrial applications where the software may be integrated into larger automated systems. Organizations using PrusaSlicer in their manufacturing processes face significant risk of unauthorized access, data compromise, and operational disruption, especially in environments where 3D printing is used for critical components or security-sensitive applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-28596 should prioritize immediate software updates to versions that address the buffer overflow vulnerability through proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms. Users should implement strict file validation procedures, including scanning all .obj files for malicious content before processing them in PrusaSlicer. Network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect unusual file processing activities or unauthorized access attempts. Security awareness training for users handling 3D printing workflows is essential to prevent social engineering attacks that might deliver malicious .obj files. Organizations should also consider implementing sandboxing techniques for file processing and maintaining robust backup procedures to ensure recovery from potential compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation in software security and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands through the compromised application. Regular security assessments and penetration testing of 3D printing workflows should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in related software components, particularly in environments where automated manufacturing processes are critical to operations.