CVE-2022-36752 in png2webp
Summary
by MITRE • 07/29/2022
png2webp v1.0.4 was discovered to contain an out-of-bounds write via the function w2p. This vulnerability is exploitable via a crafted png file.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-36752 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw in the png2webp utility version 1.0.4, which serves as a command-line tool for converting png image files to webp format. This vulnerability exists within the w2p function, indicating a specific code path that fails to properly validate input data boundaries during the conversion process. The flaw is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through maliciously crafted png files, making it a remote code execution risk when the utility processes untrusted image inputs. The vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write conditions that occur when a program writes data past the end of a buffer, potentially corrupting adjacent memory locations. This type of vulnerability is classified as a memory safety issue and can lead to arbitrary code execution, denial of service, or information disclosure depending on the exploitation context.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a specially formatted png file that, when processed by the png2webp utility, causes the w2p function to write data beyond allocated memory boundaries. This type of flaw typically occurs when input validation is insufficient or absent, allowing malformed data to flow through the conversion pipeline without proper boundary checking. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be executed through automated processing systems or web applications that utilize this utility for image format conversion, potentially allowing attackers to compromise systems that process user-uploaded images. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input sanitization practices and inadequate memory management within the image conversion library, creating a pathway for attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially execute malicious code.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-36752 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it represents a significant security risk for systems that automatically process or convert image files. Organizations using this utility in web applications, content management systems, or automated image processing pipelines face potential compromise if they do not properly validate or sanitize input files. The vulnerability can be leveraged in various attack scenarios including server-side request forgery, privilege escalation, or complete system compromise depending on the execution environment. According to ATT&CK framework category T1203, this vulnerability could be exploited through process injection techniques where attackers might attempt to inject malicious code into the memory space of the vulnerable process. The risk is amplified in environments where the utility runs with elevated privileges or where image processing occurs in untrusted contexts, making it a prime target for exploitation in web application attacks and automated scanning campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the png2webp utility to version 1.0.5 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the out-of-bounds write condition. Organizations should also implement strict input validation measures for all image files processed through this utility, including file type verification and size limitations. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of systems running this utility, particularly in web-facing environments. Additionally, implementing runtime protections such as address space layout randomization and stack canaries can provide additional defense-in-depth measures against exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other image processing utilities and libraries within the system infrastructure. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of adhering to secure coding practices and conducting thorough code reviews for memory management operations, particularly in applications handling user-supplied binary data formats.