CVE-2023-35992 in GTKWave
Summary
by MITRE • 01/08/2024
An integer overflow vulnerability exists in the FST fstReaderIterBlocks2 vesc allocation functionality of GTKWave 3.3.115, when compiled as a 32-bit binary. A specially crafted .fst file can lead to memory corruption. A victim would need to open a malicious file to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2024
The integer overflow vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-35992 resides within the GTKWave 3.3.115 waveform viewer application, specifically within the fstReaderIterBlocks2 function that handles vesc allocation operations. This vulnerability manifests exclusively when the application is compiled as a 32-bit binary, making it particularly relevant for systems where legacy 32-bit architecture is still in use. The flaw originates from improper handling of integer values during the processing of FST (Fast Signal Trace) files, which are commonly used for storing digital waveform data in electronic design automation environments. When a maliciously crafted .fst file is processed by GTKWave, the application fails to properly validate integer inputs, leading to an overflow condition that can corrupt memory allocation structures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of integer values that control memory allocation for vesc structures within the FST file parsing logic. In 32-bit compilation environments, integer overflow occurs when arithmetic operations exceed the maximum representable value for the integer type, causing the value to wrap around to a much smaller number. This overflow directly impacts the memory allocation calculations used by the fstReaderIterBlocks2 function, resulting in insufficient memory being allocated or incorrect memory boundaries being established. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-190 as an integer overflow or wraparound, which represents a fundamental flaw in input validation and arithmetic operation handling within the application's core parsing routines. The specific context of this vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within a file format parser that is commonly used in electronic design automation workflows where users frequently open waveform files from various sources.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-35992 extends beyond simple memory corruption, potentially enabling remote code execution or system compromise when victims open malicious FST files. This vulnerability represents a significant risk in environments where designers and engineers regularly exchange waveform data, as it could be exploited through social engineering tactics to deliver malicious files through legitimate file sharing channels. The attack vector requires physical interaction from the victim, as they must actively open the malicious file, but this requirement does not diminish the threat level given the widespread use of GTKWave in electronic design automation. The vulnerability's exploitation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries leverage application vulnerabilities to execute code on target systems. The memory corruption resulting from this integer overflow can lead to unpredictable application behavior, crashes, or more severe consequences depending on the specific memory layout and the attacker's ability to control the overflowed values.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-35992 should prioritize immediate patching of GTKWave installations to versions that address the integer overflow condition in the fstReaderIterBlocks2 function. System administrators should implement strict file validation policies, particularly for FST files received from external sources, and consider deploying file format validation tools that can detect malformed FST files before they are processed by GTKWave. Network-level controls such as file type restrictions and sandboxing mechanisms can provide additional defense layers, while regular security audits of waveform file handling processes should be conducted to identify potential exploitation vectors. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict GTKWave execution to trusted environments and ensure that all systems running GTKWave are updated to the latest stable releases. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper integer overflow handling in file parsing applications, particularly those dealing with binary formats that may be subject to malicious input manipulation, and serves as a reminder of the need for robust input validation and memory safety practices in security-critical applications.