CVE-2021-44005 in JT2Go
Summary
by MITRE • 12/14/2021
A vulnerability has been identified in JT2Go (All versions < V13.2.0.5), Teamcenter Visualization (All versions < V13.2.0.5). The Tiff_Loader.dll contains an out of bounds write past the end of an allocated structure while parsing specially crafted TIFF files. This could allow an attacker to execute code in the context of the current process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/16/2021
The vulnerability CVE-2021-44005 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the Tiff_Loader.dll component of JT2Go and Teamcenter Visualization software versions prior to V13.2.0.5. This issue stems from inadequate input validation during the parsing of TIFF image files, where the software fails to properly bounds-check memory allocations when processing maliciously crafted image data. The vulnerability manifests as an exploitable condition that can lead to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the current user process, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where these visualization tools are commonly deployed for engineering and product design workflows.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write conditions in software applications. When the Tiff_Loader.dll processes malformed TIFF files, it attempts to write data beyond the boundaries of allocated memory structures, creating a scenario where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory regions. This memory corruption vulnerability provides a pathway for remote code execution attacks, as the attacker can craft TIFF files that trigger the out-of-bounds write condition during normal file parsing operations. The flaw exists in the software's image processing pipeline and affects the core functionality of these visualization applications that handle large volumes of technical documentation and design files.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using Siemens JT2Go and Teamcenter Visualization products, particularly in manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace industries where these tools are integral to product development processes. The exploitability of this vulnerability means that an attacker could potentially compromise systems by delivering malicious TIFF files through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing platforms. The impact extends beyond individual system compromise as these visualization tools are often used in collaborative environments where documents are frequently shared between team members, increasing the attack surface and potential for widespread compromise.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation by upgrading to JT2Go V13.2.0.5 or Teamcenter Visualization V13.2.0.5, which contain patches addressing this memory corruption flaw. Additional mitigations include implementing strict file validation policies for TIFF files received through email or file sharing systems, deploying network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file transfers, and applying application whitelisting controls to restrict execution of untrusted image processing utilities. Security teams should also consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for image file processing and establishing incident response procedures specifically addressing potential exploitation of this vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, highlighting the need for comprehensive endpoint protection and user awareness training to prevent successful exploitation attempts.