CVE-2021-34302 in JT2Go
Summary
by MITRE • 07/13/2021
A vulnerability has been identified in JT2Go (All versions < V13.2), Teamcenter Visualization (All versions < V13.2). The BMP_Loader.dll library in affected applications lacks proper validation of user-supplied data when parsing BMP files. This could result in an out of bounds read past the end of an allocated buffer. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to leak information in the context of the current process. (ZDI-CAN-13197)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/16/2021
The vulnerability CVE-2021-34302 represents a critical buffer over-read flaw in the BMP_Loader.dll library component of JT2Go and Teamcenter Visualization applications. This issue affects all versions prior to V13.2 and stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms when processing BMP image files. The flaw exists within the parsing logic that handles bitmap file formats, where the application fails to properly validate the boundaries of user-supplied data before attempting to read from memory locations beyond the allocated buffer space. Such insufficient validation creates a scenario where maliciously crafted BMP files can trigger unauthorized memory access patterns that may expose sensitive information from the application's memory context.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability falls under CWE-125 which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions in software applications. When an attacker supplies a malformed BMP file to the affected applications, the BMP_Loader.dll component attempts to parse the file structure without proper boundary checks, leading to memory access violations that can result in information disclosure. The out-of-bounds read occurs during the processing of bitmap headers and pixel data, where the application's buffer management logic does not adequately verify that read operations remain within the confines of allocated memory regions. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be leveraged to extract potentially sensitive data from the process memory, including stack contents, heap data, or other application-specific information that could aid in further exploitation attempts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with potential insights into the application's memory layout and internal state. In the context of the ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with techniques related to information gathering and privilege escalation, as leaked memory contents may contain pointers, credentials, or other sensitive data that could be used in subsequent attack phases. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges since it operates within the context of the currently running process, making it particularly concerning for applications that handle sensitive data or operate with elevated permissions. The affected applications are commonly used in engineering and visualization environments where they may process files from untrusted sources, creating numerous attack vectors for potential exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-34302 should prioritize immediate patching of affected applications to version V13.2 or later, where the buffer validation issues have been addressed. Organizations should implement strict input validation measures for all image file processing within their systems, including mandatory file format verification and boundary checking before any parsing operations occur. Security teams should also consider implementing network-based detection measures using intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious BMP file patterns, as well as application whitelisting policies that restrict the execution of unauthorized file processing routines. Additionally, regular security assessments of visualization and engineering applications should be conducted to identify similar buffer handling vulnerabilities, and the principle of least privilege should be enforced when running these applications to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.