CVE-2020-6064 in ImageGear
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable out-of-bounds write vulnerability exists in the uncompress_scan_line function of the igcore19d.dll library of Accusoft ImageGear, version 19.5.0. A specially crafted PCX file can cause an out-of-bounds write, resulting in a remote code execution. An attacker needs to provide a malformed file to the victim to trigger the vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-6064 represents a critical security flaw within the Accusoft ImageGear library version 19.5.0, specifically affecting the igcore19d.dll component. This issue manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs during the processing of PCX image files through the uncompress_scan_line function. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-787, which describes out-of-bounds write conditions that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The flaw exists in the image decompression logic where insufficient bounds checking allows malicious data to overwrite memory regions beyond the intended buffer boundaries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a specially formatted PCX file that triggers the problematic code path within the image processing library. When a victim system processes this malformed file, the uncompress_scan_line function fails to properly validate input parameters, particularly regarding buffer dimensions and data offsets. This failure allows the attacker to write data beyond the allocated memory space, potentially overwriting critical program structures, function pointers, or return addresses. The vulnerability's remote code execution capability stems from the fact that any application utilizing the affected ImageGear library for PCX file processing becomes susceptible to this attack vector.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-6064 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. This vulnerability affects systems running applications that depend on Accusoft ImageGear 19.5.0 for image processing, including document management systems, image viewers, and content management platforms. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that PCX files are commonly encountered in various business and enterprise environments, making this vulnerability attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise target networks. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves the exploitation of software vulnerabilities for code execution, and T1059, representing the execution of malicious code through compromised applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of the affected Accusoft ImageGear library to version 19.6.0 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the out-of-bounds write condition. Organizations should implement file validation measures to filter PCX files before processing, particularly in environments where user-supplied content is accepted. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can help reduce the attack surface by limiting which systems can process potentially malicious image files. Additionally, implementing memory protection mechanisms such as address space layout randomization and data execution prevention can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual file processing patterns and potential exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability may be leveraged in targeted attacks against specific organizations. The fix addresses the root cause by implementing proper bounds checking within the uncompress_scan_line function, ensuring that all buffer operations remain within allocated memory boundaries and preventing the overwrite conditions that lead to remote code execution.