CVE-2023-34296 in DICOM Viewer Pro
Summary
by MITRE • 05/03/2024
Sante DICOM Viewer Pro DCM File Parsing Out-Of-Bounds Write Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Sante DICOM Viewer Pro. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability in that the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file.
The specific flaw exists within the parsing of DCM files. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, which can result in a write past the end of an allocated object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-21126.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/04/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-34296 represents a critical out-of-bounds write condition within the Sante DICOM Viewer Pro software, specifically during the parsing of DCM files. This remote code execution flaw affects versions of the medical imaging software that handle DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) files, which are standard formats used in healthcare for storing and transmitting medical images and related information. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in healthcare environments where DICOM viewers are commonly deployed for diagnostic imaging and medical record management.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation during the DCM file parsing process. When the software processes a maliciously crafted DICOM file, it fails to properly validate the boundaries of memory allocations, leading to a write operation that extends beyond the allocated buffer space. This out-of-bounds write condition can be exploited by attackers who craft specially formatted DCM files designed to trigger the vulnerable code path. The flaw falls under CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write conditions in software implementations, making it a well-documented and dangerous class of vulnerability that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant, particularly in healthcare environments where medical imaging systems are frequently accessed and where security is paramount. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through remote exploitation by delivering malicious DCM files through web-based attacks or by convincing users to open compromised files. The requirement for user interaction, while providing some defense in depth, does not eliminate the threat as healthcare workers may encounter these files in legitimate workflows or through phishing attacks. The vulnerability allows attackers to execute code with the privileges of the current process, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive patient medical data.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves exploiting software vulnerabilities for remote code execution. Healthcare organizations should consider implementing multiple layers of defense including network segmentation, email filtering, and endpoint protection solutions that can detect and prevent the execution of malicious code. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping medical imaging software up to date, as the issue was tracked as ZDI-CAN-21126, indicating it was recognized by the Zero Day Initiative security researchers. Organizations should implement strict file validation procedures for DICOM files, particularly when these files are received from external sources or when they are automatically processed by medical imaging systems. Regular security assessments of medical imaging infrastructure and comprehensive incident response procedures are essential to mitigate the risk posed by such vulnerabilities.