CVE-2024-28566 in FreeImage
Summary
by MITRE • 03/20/2024
Buffer Overflow vulnerability in open source FreeImage v.3.19.0 [r1909] allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary code via the AssignPixel() function when reading images in TIFF format.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/13/2025
The buffer overflow vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-28566 resides within the FreeImage open source image processing library version 3.19.0, specifically manifesting in the AssignPixel() function during TIFF image parsing operations. This critical flaw represents a classic stack-based buffer overflow scenario where insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to write beyond allocated memory boundaries, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects a widely deployed image processing library that serves numerous applications and systems across different platforms and operating environments. The flaw occurs when the library processes TIFF format images, leveraging the AssignPixel() function to handle pixel data assignment, where input validation fails to properly constrain buffer boundaries. The vulnerability is classified as a local privilege escalation vector since exploitation requires the attacker to have local system access to trigger the malformed image processing. This aligns with CWE-121, which defines stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checks allow attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The security implications extend beyond simple code execution to potentially enable privilege escalation attacks, especially when the vulnerable library is used in applications with elevated privileges or in server environments where image processing is performed on untrusted input.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires careful crafting of a malicious TIFF image file that triggers the buffer overflow condition during the AssignPixel() function execution. When the library attempts to process pixel data from the malformed TIFF file, the insufficient input validation causes memory corruption that can be leveraged to overwrite return addresses or function pointers in the call stack. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as the buffer overflow can be used to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the vulnerable application. The flaw demonstrates a failure in memory safety practices and input validation, where the library does not properly validate the dimensions or pixel data structure of TIFF images before attempting to assign pixel values. The specific conditions leading to exploitation involve the precise manipulation of TIFF metadata fields that control image dimensions and pixel layout, combined with the memory layout characteristics of the target system. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the widespread use of FreeImage across various software applications, making it a high-value target for attackers seeking to compromise systems through image processing components.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-28566 extends to numerous systems that rely on FreeImage for image handling, including but not limited to web applications, image processing servers, content management systems, and desktop software packages. Organizations using vulnerable versions of FreeImage may face potential system compromise, data exfiltration, and service disruption when attackers exploit this vulnerability through malicious image files. The local execution requirement means that exploitation typically occurs in environments where users can upload or process untrusted images, such as web applications that accept image uploads or systems that process scanned documents and images. Security teams must consider the broader attack surface that includes any application or service that utilizes the vulnerable FreeImage library, particularly those that process images from external sources without proper input sanitization. The vulnerability's exploitation potential also increases in environments where the affected applications run with elevated privileges, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise. Remediation efforts must include immediate patching of the FreeImage library to version 3.19.1 or later, alongside implementation of proper input validation and image sanitization measures. Additionally, organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of regular software updates and vulnerability management programs, as it represents a preventable issue that could have been addressed through proper code review and input validation practices. This type of vulnerability also highlights the need for automated security testing of third-party libraries and components, particularly those handling untrusted data inputs such as multimedia files.