CVE-2024-28581 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 TARGA format.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/03/2024
The buffer overflow vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-28581 affects the open source FreeImage library version 3.19.0 release 1909 and represents a critical security flaw that enables local attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability specifically manifests within the _assignPixel<>() function during the processing of TARGA format image files, creating a pathway for malicious code injection that can compromise system integrity. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the image parsing routine, where insufficient bounds checking allows data to overflow allocated memory buffers. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they can be exploited through legitimate image processing operations, making them difficult to detect and prevent without comprehensive security measures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient space is allocated for data, and also relates to CWE-787, representing out-of-bounds write conditions that occur when data is written beyond the boundaries of allocated buffers. The attack vector requires a local attacker to craft a malicious TARGA image file that triggers the vulnerable _assignPixel<>() function, which typically occurs when the library processes image data without proper validation of pixel count or buffer dimensions. This type of vulnerability operates under the ATT&CK framework category of T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1203 for exploitation for execution, as the buffer overflow ultimately enables arbitrary code execution within the context of the vulnerable application.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-28581 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can potentially allow attackers to escalate privileges, access sensitive system resources, or establish persistent backdoors within affected systems. Applications that utilize FreeImage for image processing, including graphic design software, image viewers, and content management systems, become vulnerable to this attack vector. The vulnerability affects systems running the specific version 3.19.0 of FreeImage, making it essential for organizations to conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their software dependencies and ensure timely patching. The local nature of the attack means that exploitation requires physical access or the ability to influence image processing operations, but once exploited, the consequences can be severe for system security and data integrity.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of FreeImage to versions that address the buffer overflow in the _assignPixel<>() function, along with implementing input validation measures that restrict image file parameters before processing. Organizations should also consider implementing sandboxing techniques for image processing operations, utilizing address space layout randomization to make exploitation more difficult, and deploying intrusion detection systems that monitor for unusual image processing patterns. Additionally, security teams should conduct regular vulnerability assessments of open source components and maintain up-to-date software inventories to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across their infrastructure. The remediation process should also include code review practices that focus on memory management and input validation to prevent similar buffer overflow conditions in other components of the software stack.