CVE-2022-0137 in HTMLDOC
Summary
by MITRE • 11/14/2022
A heap buffer overflow in image_set_mask function of HTMLDOC before 1.9.15 allows an attacker to write outside the buffer boundaries.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2025
The heap buffer overflow vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-0137 resides within the image_set_mask function of HTMLDOC software version 1.9.15 and earlier. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that enables attackers to manipulate memory allocation patterns and potentially execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability manifests when processing malformed input data that triggers improper boundary checking within the heap memory management system. HTMLDOC is a widely used tool for converting html documents to pdf format and generating various document types, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for environments where document processing is prevalent.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from insufficient input validation and boundary checking mechanisms within the image_set_mask function. When the software processes specific image data structures, it fails to properly validate the size of input parameters against allocated buffer space. This allows an attacker to provide crafted input that exceeds the intended buffer limits, causing memory corruption that can be exploited for code execution. The vulnerability is classified as a heap-based buffer overflow according to CWE-122, which specifically addresses heap memory corruption issues that occur when programs write beyond allocated buffer boundaries. The flaw operates at the memory management level where heap allocation and deallocation routines are manipulated through improper input handling.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-0137 extends beyond simple memory corruption to potentially enable remote code execution in vulnerable environments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to inject malicious code into the heap memory space, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The attack surface is particularly broad given HTMLDOC's widespread use in web applications, document management systems, and automated processing pipelines. Security researchers have identified that this vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including web-based input processing, file upload mechanisms, and document conversion services. The potential for remote exploitation makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous in networked environments where HTMLDOC is exposed to untrusted input sources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-0137 focus primarily on immediate software updates and input validation improvements. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to HTMLDOC version 1.9.15 or later, which includes fixed buffer boundary checking mechanisms. Additionally, implementing strict input validation controls at application boundaries can provide defense-in-depth protection against exploitation attempts. Security teams should consider deploying memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and data execution prevention techniques to reduce exploitability. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1203 for exploitation for client execution, making it particularly relevant for incident response teams monitoring for potential exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of systems running vulnerable HTMLDOC versions. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify systems that may still be running affected software versions, ensuring comprehensive remediation across all organizational assets.