CVE-2022-3598 in LibTIFF
Summary
by MITRE • 10/21/2022
LibTIFF 4.4.0 has an out-of-bounds write in extractContigSamplesShifted24bits in tools/tiffcrop.c:3604, allowing attackers to cause a denial-of-service via a crafted tiff file. For users that compile libtiff from sources, the fix is available with commit cfbb883b.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-3598 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the LibTIFF library version 4.4.0, specifically within the tiffcrop.c source file at line 3604. This issue manifests in the extractContigSamplesShifted24bits function, where improper bounds checking allows maliciously crafted TIFF files to trigger memory corruption during image processing operations. The flaw exists in the library's handling of 24-bit image data, particularly when processing contiguous samples with shifted bit arrangements. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in image processing libraries since they can be exploited through routine file parsing operations that occur when applications read or manipulate TIFF formatted images. The out-of-bounds write condition creates a scenario where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially leading to application crashes or more severe system instability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the TIFF parsing logic. When the extractContigSamplesShifted24bits function processes image data, it fails to properly validate array indices against the allocated buffer boundaries. This allows an attacker to craft a TIFF file containing malformed 24-bit sample data that, when processed by the vulnerable library, causes the program to write data beyond the intended memory allocation. The vulnerability is classified as a buffer overflow condition that falls under CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. The flaw demonstrates a classic improper bounds checking issue where the library assumes valid input data without sufficient validation mechanisms to prevent malicious data from causing memory corruption.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-3598 extends beyond simple denial-of-service conditions, as it represents a potential vector for more sophisticated attacks within systems that rely on LibTIFF for image processing. Applications that utilize this library for handling TIFF files, including image viewers, document management systems, web applications, and digital asset management platforms, become vulnerable to exploitation. The vulnerability can be triggered through normal file operations such as opening, viewing, or processing TIFF images, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter untrusted image files. This flaw can be leveraged in various attack scenarios including web application exploitation, email attachment processing, or automated image analysis systems. The potential for remote code execution exists if attackers can control the execution flow through memory corruption, though the immediate impact is typically denial-of-service. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves exploiting software vulnerabilities for system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-3598 involve both immediate patching and defensive programming practices. The primary solution is to upgrade to a patched version of LibTIFF that includes the fix referenced in commit cfbb883b, which implements proper bounds checking and input validation. Organizations should prioritize updating their systems to prevent exploitation, particularly in environments where untrusted TIFF files might be processed. Additionally, implementing input sanitization measures such as validating file headers, checking data structures before processing, and employing memory safety techniques can help reduce the risk. Network-based defenses including content filtering and file type validation can prevent malicious TIFF files from reaching vulnerable systems. For systems where immediate patching is not feasible, deploying application sandboxing, restricting file processing capabilities, and implementing strict file access controls can provide additional protection layers. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual memory access patterns and potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability.